Legendary quarterback Tom Brady announced his retirement Wednesday.
The 45-year-old NFL star posted a video message for fans to Twitter. “I’ll get to the point right away,” he said during the message, “I’m retiring. For good.”
Truly grateful on this day. Thank you 🙏🏻❤️ pic.twitter.com/j2s2sezvSS
— Tom Brady (@TomBrady) February 1, 2023
The 23-year veteran made headlines a year ago when he announced his retirement, but then 40 days later he reversed course and decided to return to play for another season.
Brady referenced that previous retirement announcement in his Wednesday video. “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.”
Brady recorded the message while sitting on the beach. “I won’t be long winded,” he went on. “You only get one super emotional retirement essay, and I used mine up last year.”
Brady continued by thanking his fans, teammates, family, and everyone for their support over the years. “Thank you guys for allowing me to live my absolute dream. I wouldn’t change a thing,” he said, getting emotional. “I love you all.”
Brady finished this season with an average of 9.6 yards per completion, the lowest of his career and second-lowest in the NFL, as The Daily Wire previously reported. His contract was scheduled to expire with a “no-tag” clause, meaning he would have become an unrestricted free agent unless the Tampa Bay Buccaneers chose to re-sign him.
The longtime Patriots quarterback is often referred to as “the GOAT,” which stands for the greatest of all time. Brady’s won seven Super Bowl games, the most for any player and also the most for any team in NFL history. He is also the all-time leader in passing yards (84,520) and touchdowns (624).
Recently, Brady has been making headlines following the announcement of his divorce from Gisele Bündchen, his wife of 13 years.
“We arrived at this decision amicably and with gratitude for the time we spent together,” Brady said in a statement at the time. “We are blessed with beautiful and wonderful children who will continue to be the center of our world in every way. We will continue to work together as parents to always ensure they receive the love and attention they deserve.”
While they didn’t cite specific reasons for separating, fans believed it had to do with Bündchen wanting Brady to quit football and him wanting to continue playing.
“Obviously, I have my concerns — this is a very violent sport, and I have my children and I would like him to be more present,” Bündchen previously shared. “I have definitely had those conversations with him over and over again. But ultimately, I feel that everybody has to make a decision that works for [them]. He needs to follow his joy, too.”
As for what’s next, the Super Bowl-winning quarterback recently signed a 10-year deal with Fox Sports for $375 million to be a lead on-air NFL analyst.