Bhubaneswar, May 3 (IANS): Former hockey captain Dilip Tirky Sunday announced his retirement from international hockey as he has been suffering from fitness related problems for quite a long time.

An emotional Tirky announced his decision in a choking voice at Kalings stadium here in the presence of hundreds of his fans, sports lovers and athletes.

"I am announcing my retirement because my legs are not fit," Tirkey said.

The defender said he consulted doctors and they said his muscles have weakened and there was no improvement even if he has taken a lot of rests in the past.

Tirkey, born November 24, 1977, in Orissa's Sundergarh district, has come a long way since he had his international baptism as an 18-year-old.

He has three Olympic Games (Atlanta 1996, Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004), and as many World Cups, Asian Games and Asia Cups, and Champions Trophy tournaments behind him.

He was also honoured with Padma Shri Award and Ekalabya award.