Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Tom Brady has played 22 epic seasons in the NFL, but rumors of the football star’s retirement started circulating in late January 2022. The famed athlete confirmed the news on Tuesday, February 1.
“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,” the California native, 44, wrote in a lengthy statement via Instagram. “My teammates, coaches, fellow competitors and fans deserve 100 percent of me, but right now, it’s best I leave the field of play to the next generation of dedicated and committed athletes.”
A source told Us Weekly on January 29 that the star athlete, indeed, chose to retire after winning seven Super Bowl titles. ESPN first reported the news.
Keep reading to learn everything we know about Tom Brady’s decision to retire.
How Long Has Tom Brady Played in the NFL?
The California native has played in the league for over 20 years. He started his career after getting drafted in the sixth round of the 2000 NFL draft, playing for the New England Patriots from 2000 to 2019.
By 2020, he joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
What Is Tom Brady’s Net Worth?
The football star has found continuous financial success over the course of his athletic stardom. His net worth stands at $250 million, per Celebrity Net Worth.
Has Tom Brady Made a Retirement Announcement?
Tom made his official retirement announcement on February 1. His public statement thanked a multitude of people, from his teammates to his coaches, the NFL staff, fans and his family.
“To my Bucs teammates the past two years, I love you guys, and I have loved going to battle with you. You have dug so deep to challenge yourself, and it inspired me to wake up every day and give you my best,” he wrote. “I am always here for you guys and want to see you continue to push yourselves to be your best. I couldn’t be happier with what we accomplished together.”
He admitted he “didn’t know what to expect” when he moved his family to Florida from Boston, Massachusetts, where he previously played for the New England Patriots. “Your support and embrace have enriched my life and that of my family,” he said while thanking the fans. “I have been honored to play for such a passionate and fun fan base.”
Tom took a moment to recognize his parents, extended family and friends who have made sacrifices over the years to support his career.
“I love you and thank you for your never-ending support and love. I could never have imagined the time and energy you have given for me the past 30 years in football,” he continued. “I can never repay you. And just know I love you much.”
Last, but certainly not least, the athlete acknowledged his gorgeous wife and their children.
“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,” he gushed about the supermodel. “Her selflessness allowed me to reach new heights professionally, and I am beyond words what you mean to me and our family.”
Tom Brady Expressed ‘Gratitude’ on Instagram
Prior to his big announcement, Tom took to Instagram on January 25 to acknowledge speculation over his “future,” but focused on his graciousness for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the post, despite their season-ending loss.
“I understand that at this stage in my career, there is going to be interest in my future whenever a season ends, but this week, all that is on my mind is the gratitude I have for this team and the fans that have supported us all year long,” the quarterback wrote for his post. “This year has been incredibly rewarding personally and professionally and I am appreciative of everyone who worked their ass off to help our team achieve so much.”
He continued, adding that he “always [wants] to win.” However, the Tampa Bay-based player also pointed out this isn’t an indication to “equate losing to failure, especially when you go out fighting the way we did.”
“There’s so much to appreciate in a season like this when you’re surrounded by a team that believes in each other and plays for the people standing on either side of them,” Tom added in his caption. “I’ll spare you the Man in the Arena quote, but that feeling is something that I promise I’ll never take for granted. To everyone that was a part of it this year, thank you. I love you all!”
Several NFL Players Thanked Tom Brady On Social Media
After reports of his retirement spread, multiple NFL players took the time to pen Tom thankful notes on social media.
“Thanks for everything big bro,” fellow Tampa Bay Buccaneers player Mike Evans tweeted on January 29, adding “It was an honor” with the goat emoji, in reference to the anacronym for the “Greatest Of All Time.”
New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman also paid tribute to Tom upon hearing the news.
“Thanks for the memories babe @TomBrady,” Julian wrote via Twitter that day.