Tom Brady officially calls time on NFL career with sudden announcement!
Tampa, Florida – Tom Brady has officially announced his retirement from the NFL via Instagram.
One day after Brady said he was, "still going through the process" of weighing the pros and cons of retiring, it seems the 44-year-old quarterback has made a decision.
On Tuesday, Brady posted a lengthy statement on Instagram, where he officially announced his retirement.
"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 began.
"This is difficult to write, but here it goes: I am not going to make that competitive commitment anymore. I have loved my NFL career, and now it's time to focus my time and energy on other things that require my attention."
The announcement comes roughly one week after Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers were eliminated from the playoffs by the Los Angeles Rams.
Brady makes "giving to others" his new mission
In his announcement, Brady went on to thank his Buccaneers teammates, the fans, head coach Bruce Arians, the city of Tampa, and the Glazer family who owns the franchise.
"I have learned so much from all of you and will value the relationships we have," Brady wrote.
His announcement wouldn't be complete without a special shoutout to his supermodel wife, Gisele Bündchen, and his family.
"You are my inspiration. Our family is my greatest achievement. I always came off the field and home to the most loving and supportive wife who has done everything for our family to allow me to focus on my career."
With his newfound free time, Brady said he wants to spend a lot of it, "Giving to others and trying to enrich other people's lives, just as so many have done for me."
The legendary quarterback and seven-time Super Bowl champion played in the NFL for 22 years.
Cover photo: Collage: Imago/ZUMA Wire