Tom Brady Confirms Retirement After More Than 20 Years Playing Football in the NFL

usmagazine.com:

It’s official. After sparking retirement speculation, Tom Brady has officially decided it’s time to hang up his cleats for good.“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.

There is 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. This is difficult for me to write, but here it goes, I am not going to make that competitive commitment anymore,” the 44-year-old athlete began a lengthy statement on Tuesday, February 1, via Instagram. “I have loved my NFL career, and now it is time to focus my time and energy on other things that require my attention.”“I’ve done a lot of reflecting the past week and have asked myself difficult questions.

And I am so proud of what we have achieved,” Brady continued. “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.”He went on to thank his Tampa Bay teammates, writing, “I love you guys, and I have loved going to battle with you. … I couldn’t be happier with what we accomplished together.” While he gave shout-outs to the Bucs fans and coaching staff, Brady noticeably didn’t mention the New England Patriots organization.“And lastly to my wife, Gisele, and my children, Jack, Benny and Vivi.