Irish swimmer Grainne Murphy has announced her retirement from the pool.

The 22-year-old Wexford native has decided to quit the sport after revealing that a severe lung infection that she suffered in November last year has severely hampered her preparations for Rio 2016.

The former European silver medalist holds three senior Irish records in the 800m and 1500m freestyle and the 200m Individual Medley.

"I reached a crossroads in November of 2015. I suffered a severe lung infection that took a long time to recover from. I realised that while I might make an Olympic qualification time for Rio, I did not feel like I would be competitive at the Games. I have always maintained that if I go to a major championship I want to be at the top of my game and in the mix," she said in a statement.