Tiger Woods and Lindsey Vonn announce their relationship has ended

Tiger Woods and Lindsey Vonn have broken up after a near three-year relationship.

Vonn used her Facebook page to announce the split before Woods confirmed it on his website.

"After nearly three years together, Tiger and I have mutually decided to end our relationship," said the four-time World Cup ski champion and Olympic gold medalist.

"I will always cherish the memories that we've created together. Unfortunately, we both lead incredibly hectic lives that force us to spend a majority of our time apart.

"I will always admire and respect Tiger. He and his beautiful family will always hold a special place in my heart."

Woods wrote: "I have great admiration, respect and love for Lindsey and I'll always cherish our time together. She has been amazing with (daughter) Sam and (son) Charlie and my entire family.

"Unfortunately, we lead very hectic lives and are both competing in demanding sports. It's difficult to spend time together."

The pair announced in 2013 that they were a couple and were routinely seen as spectators at each other's sporting events.

Both went through long recoveries from injuries that prevented them from competing in their respective sports.

Woods played at this year's Masters and is due to compete at the Players Championship this week in Florida.

Vonn returned from knee surgery to break the record for most World Cup ski championship wins by a woman.