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Tom Brady officially retires: Read his statement

'I have always believed the sport of football is an 'all-in' proposition,' Tom Brady says

Last weekend, the news leaked that Tom Brady, reportedly, was planning to step down from the NFL. Now, it’s official, as Brady has released a heartfelt statement on his social media pages stating that he’s retiring from pro football following 22 successful seasons.

“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,” Brady’s statement reads. “This is difficult for me to write, but here it goes: I am not going to make that competitive commitment anymore.”

Brady also thanked his teammates with the Buccaneers, plus the fans, the city of Tampa and its residents, the Buccaneers ownership, GM Jason Licht and the Buccaneers coaches. He went on to thank Tampa Bay head coach Bruce Arians for “putting up with me.” After winning the team a Super Bowl, it’s pretty obvious Tampa Bay enjoyed “putting up” with Tom Brady the past several years.

“To my Bucs teammates the past two years, I love you guys, and I have loved going to battle with you,” he adds in the statement. “You have dug so deep to challenge yourself, and it inspired me to wake up every day and give you my best. “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 want on to thank the staff of the Buccaneers; his trainer Alex Guerrero; his agents Don Yee and Steve Dubin; his parents; and, of course, his family. He didn’t mention his other longtime team, the Patriots.

“And lastly to my wife, Gisele, and my children Jack, Benny and Vivi. You are my inspiration. Our family is my greatest achievement,” Brady said regarding his family. “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. Her selflessness allowed me to reach new heights professionally, and I am beyond words what you mean to me and our family. Te amo amor da minha vida.”

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