Officially official: Tom Brady announces retirement

Mat Mlodzinski

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — After 22 years in the NFL, 7-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady announced his retirement with a message to supporters.

In a series of tweets, Brady outline his reasons for retiring and what his near future holds.

"My playing career has been such a thrilling ride, and far beyond my imagination, and full of ups and downs," said Brady.

Brady’s career consisted of five MVP trophies, numerous passing records, and of course, the aforementioned seven Super Bowl championships.

"As I said earlier, I am going to take it day by day," said Brady, who referenced his start-up health company "TB12" in addition to goals of helping to "enrich other people’s lives."

Brady has long been an advocate of player health, a testament to his ability to play at an elite level into his mid-40s.

The Buffalo Bills, who were often on the losing end against Brady during his long run in New England, put out a humerous tweet out of respect for Brady’s success against them.

The combination of Brady’s success on the field and off the field stardom made him both one of the most feared competitors to go against and one of the most likable players in the league.

"I feel like the luckiest person in the world," said Brady.