New Zealand golfer Michael Campbell says the time is right for him to retire after 20 years playing professionally.
Michael Campbell Photo: Photosport
Campbell said he had had a wonderful career, with winning the 2005 US Open his biggest highlight.
The 46-year-old said he had spent six months thinking about whether the time was right to retire and he had no regrets about his decision.
He said professional golf was a tough life that put a lot of strain on himself and his relationships.
Michael Campbell said he hoped to spend a lot more time with his family, although he would like to play on the senior golf tour when he qualifies in four years time.
He said he wanted to give back to the game that had given him a lot over a professional career spanning 20 years.
Campbell is hoping to set up a golf academy in New Zealand, similar to one he has in Spain, to help young people develop their skills.
"It's one thing that Jack Nicholas said to me a long time ago, he said to me Michael since you've won your major you need to pass on your knowledge and your experiences to young kids, young generation."
Campbell said that had been in the back of his mind ever since and he felt now was the right time for him to do that.
He said New Zealand golf was in great shape, and he hoped the game could build on the success seen by the likes of Lydia Ko.
Mal Tongue who coached Campbell for eight years, said he had a lot of charisma on the golf course and was also a role model to a lot of other players.
