Tom Brady announces retirement after 22-year career and seven Super Bowl titles

Tom Brady, the most successful quarterback in NFL history, has retired after winning seven Super Bowls and setting numerous passing records in an unprecedented 22-year career.

«This is difficult for me to write, but here it goes: I am not going to make that competitive commitment anymore,» Brady wrote in a lengthy post on 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.»

The 44-year-old has long stated his desire to spend more time with his wife, supermodel Gisele Bündchen, and three children despite his unique ability to perform exceptionally well at an age when most athletes are way past their prime.

Brady goes out after leading the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to a Super Bowl title last season and NFC South championship this season.

News of Brady's pending retirement leaked on Saturday but he said on his SiriusXM podcast Monday night he was not ready to finalise his plans.

That came Wednesday morning.

«Right now, it's best I leave the field of play to the next generation of dedicated and committed athletes,» Brady said.

Brady thanked the Buccaneers organisation, his teammates, general manager Jason Licht, coach Bruce Arians, his trainer Alex Guerrero, agents Don Yee and Steve Dubin, and his family in his nine-page post.

He didn't mention the New England Patriots, where he spent his first 20 seasons and won six Super Bowls playing for Bill Belichick. But Brady thanked the Patriots and their fans on Twitter, saying: «I'm beyond grateful. Love you all.»

Brady said he was still figuring out how he would spend his time, but he planned to be involved in his TB12 health and wellness company, Brady clothing line and NFT company.

«I know for sure I want to spend a