Tom Brady is hanging up his boots. The legendary quarterback has announced that he is retiring after 23 seasons in the NFL. The seven-time Super Bowl champion made the announcement with a video on social media on Wednesday.
Brady is considered the greatest quarterback of all time by many. He had initially retired from the sport in February 2022 but later returned for another season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Tom Brady Announces Retirement
In his announcement video on Twitter, Brady revealed that he is retiring from the game ‘for good,’ adding, “I know the process was a pretty big deal last time, so when I woke up this morning, I figured I’d just press record and let you guys know first. It won’t be long-winded. You only get one super-emotional retirement essay, and I used mine up last year.”
The footballer thanked his family, friends, and teammates for their support during his long career. “I really thank you guys so much to every single one of you for supporting me. My family, my friends, my teammates, my competitors… I can go on forever. There’s too many. Thank you, guys, for allowing me to live my absolute dream. I wouldn’t change a thing.” he said.
Truly grateful on this day. Thank you 🙏🏻❤️ pic.twitter.com/j2s2sezvSS
— Tom Brady (@TomBrady) February 1, 2023
Brady had first informed his decision to the Buccaneers at 6 am ET on February 1. The team then shared an appreciation post for the player and tweeted, “#ThankYouTom.” NFL also paid tribute to Brady with a tweet: “The greatest ever.”
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Releases Statement
The Buccaneers released a statement following the announcement: “Tom’s Legacy is unmatched in the history of this game. All the Super Bowl titles and statistical records speak for themselves, but the impact he had on so many people through the years is what I appreciate the most.”
“His imprint on this organization helped take us to the mountaintop. We will certainly miss him as our quarterback, but I will also miss him as a leader and friend. Our entire organization is indebted to him for what he provided us over the past three years. We won’t ever forget the wins or the accolades and his influence will be felt for years to come.”
JJ Watt, the renowned former defensive player, also tweeted, “Greatest of All Time. No question, no debate. It’s been an honor and a privilege. The newly retired group meets on the golf course every morning at 10am. Drinks are on the new guy, so bring your wallet.”
Brady was Named Super Bowl MVP Five Times
Tom Brady was selected in the sixth round of the 2000 NFL draft by the New England Patriots and played 20 seasons with the team. He led his team to six Lombardi Trophies. He is the only player to win the Super Bowl more than five times. Brady has also been named MVP in the league in five seasons.
In 2020, he left the Patriots as a free agent and was picked by the Buccaneers, who won the Super Bowl the following year. He has now ended his NFL career with the most passing yards (89,214) and touchdown passes (649).
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