English-born Jamaican karate athlete Alton Brown has announced his retirement from professional competition.

A former European champion, World champion and Commonwealth Games medalist, Brown just missed out on qualifying for the Tokyo Olympics.

“Today, I officially retire from the sport as an athlete and would like to say a huge thank you to everyone that has contributed to my journey, you know who you are. Extra special thanks goes to my incredible wife Melissa and our two wonderful girls,” Brown said in a post on Instagram on Sunday (November 21).

“It would not have been possible without your support, love and guidance. Forever grateful to the Jamaica Karate Federation and Jamaica Olympic Association.”

For more than two decades Brown represented Great Britain and Jamaica at international tournaments. He expressed gratitude for what the sports enabled him to accomplish during that time.

“The sport has enabled me to have a positive impact on my community, as well as different communities around the world,” said Brown, who began competing internationally at age 17.

“I have inspired and been inspired by athletes and coaches from across the globe. I have been blessed to have had the opportunity to represent two countries, both England & now Jamaica,” Brown wrote further.

“Alongside my teammates, we have been able to use our platform to create a pathway for young Jamaican athletes at home and abroad who will represent in World Karate Federation (WKF) Karate in the years to come and will continue to support the development of wider Caribbean karate,” he added.

The Jamaica Olympic Association (JOA) replied to his post saying, “Thank you for your contribution at @Jamaicakarate. All the best Alton.”

In mid-November, Brown competed at the World Karate Championships held in Dubai in the 75kg category.