Former world number one golfer Rory McIlroy has broken off his engagement to tennis star Caroline Wozniacki just days after the couple sent out wedding invitations.

The Northern Irishman, who popped the question after a New Year's Eve fireworks show in Sydney, Australia in January, has admitted that he "wasn't ready" for marriage.

In a statement released via the sportsman's communications consultancy, he said: "There is no right way to end a relationship that has been so important to two people.

"The problem is mine. The wedding invitations issued at the weekend made me realise that I wasn't ready for all that marriage entails.

"I wish Caroline all the happiness she deserves and thank her for the great times we've had. I will not be saying anything more about our relationship in any setting."

The couple, who have been dogged by break-up rumours in the past, began dating more than two years ago.