Magnussen splits with coach ahead of Rio

Australian swimming star James Magnussen says he's decided to split with long-time coach Brant Best to reinvigorate himself ahead of the 2016 Olympic Games.

The two-time swimming world champion and Olympic silver medallist confirmed in a statement issued on Monday he'd ended his four-year partnership with Best.

"Brant has been such an important part of my journey as a professional swimmer, and in shaping me as person," he said.

"Those things combined have made this decision incredibly difficult."

Magnussen cited the desire for a fresh environment and challenges ahead of the 2015 Kazan World Swimming Championships, as well as Rio, as the reasons behind his decision.

"I have resolved that in order to refocus my program, and to achieve a sense of renewed invigoration, part of that change process involves working with a new coach," he said.

Under Best, he won world titles in 2011 and 2013 and claimed silver in the 100m freestyle at the 2012 London Olympics.

But a back injury has hampered 23-year-old's form more recently.

Earlier this month, the persistent complaint forced the 100m freestyle world champion to withdraw from Singapore's Swim Stars event.

Magnussen is currently taking a six-week break from the pool to recover.

A spokesperson for Swimming Australia said head coach Jacco Verhaeren was helping Magnussen consider options for his future.

He is expected to name a new coach in coming weeks.