Tony McCoy tells Richard Johnson: look in the mirror and you will see a champion

The sudden announcement by Richard Johnson at Newton Abbot that his ride on Brother Tedd was the last of his riding career left the racing world in shock and set social media aflame with tributes for one of the sport's greatest ever jockeys.

Sir Anthony McCoy, the only jump jockey with more wins than Johnson, saluted one of his fiercest rivals for the competition he offered and wished him well in his retirement.

Aidan Coleman, who teamed up with Paisley Park to beat Johnson and Thyme Hill in a memorable finish to the Long Walk Hurdle at Ascot in December, described Johnson as his "hero" and was at a loss for words after the sudden announcement.

Harry Skelton, pushing for a first jockeys' championship of his own this month, tweeted Johnson was the "ultimate role model" in life.

Tom Scudamore and Willy Twiston-Davies were also among those to pay tribute to Johnson.

Johnson was not the only rider to have his final ride in the 5.25 at Newton Abbot, as Mark Grant also finished his career in the saddle on Count Meribel. Unlike the four-time champion jockey, he hadannounced the decision earlier on Saturday prior to his final ride.

And sports psychologist Michael Caulfield nicely summed up Johnson's outstanding attitude throughout his career.

Read more on Richard Johnson's retirement:

Four-time champion jump jockey Richard Johnson retires

Richard Johnson: after 30 years the time has come to retire

A sport could not have had a finer role model or ambassador than Richard Johnson (Members' Club)

Get clued up with the latest Grand National tips and odds with our free microsite. The best betting advice and exclusive Grand National free betting offers all in one place.