Two-time world champion Gwen Jorgensen won Olympic gold for the US in women's triathlon at Rio 2016 ©Getty Images

Rio 2016 Olympic gold medallist and two-time world champion Gwen Jorgensen has planned a surprise return to triathlon with the aim of competing for the United States in the mixed relay at Paris 2024.

Jorgensen's women's individual triumph at Rio 2016 was the US' first in triathlon at the Olympic Games, following on from world titles in 2014 and 2015.

She retired from triathlon in 2017 to turn her attention to competing in the marathon at Tokyo 2020, although her hopes were hampered by injury.

The mixed team relay made its Olympic debut at Tokyo 2020, with the US team of Katie Zaferes, Kevin McDowell, Taylor Knibb and Morgan Pearson earning silver.

The 36-year-old revealed her plans to return to triathlon on Instagram.

"I am thrilled to announce my return to the blue carpet," Jorgensen wrote.

"I'm collaborating with my team to return to form and look forward to the work ahead as I invest in myself and USA Triathlon.

"I am inspired by the mixed-team relay’s silver medal in Tokyo and aspire to contribute to that team in 2024.

"I believe team USA can be one step higher in Paris!

"This return is about more than just me.

"As a mom of two and long-time supporter of USA Triathlon, I strive to set an example that motivates and inspires my family, moms everywhere, and team USA."

The triathlon mixed relay made its debut at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, with the US earning silver ©Getty Images
The triathlon mixed relay made its debut at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, with the US earning silver ©Getty Images

World Triathlon said on Twitter: "We are thrilled to welcome Olympic champion [Gwen Jorgensen] back to triathlon and the blue carpet."

Jorgensen would have to compete in the individual race to be eligible for the mixed team relay.

The US has up to three qualifying places available for women's triathlon for Paris 2024, with  Knibb and Taylor Spivey both currently ranked in the top four of World Triathlon's elite women's rankings.

Triathlon events at Paris 2024 are set to conclude at the Pont Alexandre III, an iconic bridge on the River Seine.