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GOAT: Tom Brady Calls it Quits After 22 Seasons in the NFL
Tom Brady, the quarterback of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, has officially announced his retirement from the NFL on Tuesday following 22 seasons and 7 Super Bowl victories, saying he will stop making that “competitive commitment.”
Brady published his lengthy statement on social media, officially ending days of speculation. He explained that his decision of leaving football after over two decades of success was difficult, but it ultimately came down to his ability to commit fully to the game.
“I have always believed the sport of football is an ‘all-in’ proposition – if a 100% competitive commitment isn’t there you won't’ succeed, and success is what I love so much about our game,” he started his statement. “There is a physical, mental, and emotional challenge EVERY single day that has allowed me to maximize my highest potential. And I have tried my very best these past 22 years. There are no shortcuts to success on the field or in life,” he went on to say.
“This is difficult for me to write but here it goes: I am not going to make that competitive commitment anymore,” Brady continued. “I have loved my NFL career and now it is time to focus my time and energy on other things that require my attention.”
Tom Brady Announces Retirement Following Days of Speculation
Over the weekend, reports have surfaced, saying that the veteran NFL player had decided to retire. However, on Monday, Tom Brady went on the “Let’s Go!” podcast to clarify that he’s still “going through the process.” He also clarified that, following the Bucs’ loss to the LA Rams earlier this month, his family would have a large role in making his decision.
“I have done a lot of reflecting the past week and have asked myself difficult questions,” the quarterback’s statement read. “And I am so proud of what we have achieved. My teammates, coaches, fellow competitors, and fans deserve 100% of me, but right now, it's best I leave the field of play to the next generation of dedicated and committed athletes.”
Brady also thanked his Tampa Bay teammates in his statement, along with the team’s fans, his Glazer family, the team’s general manager Jason Licht, and the coaching staff. He also expressed his gratitude to head coach Bruce Arians for “putting up” with him.
Tom Brady wrote: “My playing career has been such a thrilling ride, and far beyond my imagination, and full of ups and downs. When you're in it every day, you don't really think about any kind of ending … As I sit here now, however, I think of all the great players and coaches I was privileged to play with and against the competition was fierce and deep, JUST HOW WE LIKE IT. But the friendships and relationships are just as fierce and deep. I will remember and cherish these memories and revisit them often. I feel like the luckiest person in the world.”
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