NEW YORK (1010 WINS) -- Tampa Bay quarterback Tom Brady announced Tuesday that he is retiring from the NFL after 22 seasons and seven Super Bowl wins.
Brady, 44, confirmed his retirement with a lengthy statement on Twitter and Instagram in which he said his football career has been a “thrilling ride, far beyond my imagination, and full of ups and downs.”
“This is difficult for me to write, but here it goes: I am not going to make that competitive commitment anymore,” the famed quarterback wrote. “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,” Brady continued. “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.”
The announcement came a day after Brady said he was still evaluating his future after reports of his impending retirement over the weekend.
Brady has long stated his desire to spend more time with his wife, supermodel Gisele Bundchen, and three children despite still playing at the top of his game.
Brady won six Super Bowls with the New England Patriots, where he spent his first 20 seasons. He also led the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to a Super Bowl title last season and an NFC South championship this season.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said in a statement that Brady “will be remembered as one of the greatest to ever play in the NFL.”
“An incredible competitor and leader, his stellar career is remarkable for its longevity but also for the sustained excellence he displayed year after year,” Goodell said. “Tom made everyone around him better and always seemed to rise to the occasion in the biggest moments. His record five Super Bowl MVP awards and seven Super Bowl championships set a standard that players will chase for years.”
“He inspired fans in New England, Tampa and around the world with one of the greatest careers in NFL history,” Goodell continued. “It has been a privilege to watch him compete and have him in the NFL. We thank him for his many contributions to our game and wish Tom and his family all the best in the future.”
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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