Tom Brady Announces Retirement In Emotional Statement, He Doesn't Mention The Patriots Once

Tom Brady has officially retired, penning a lengthy statement where he thanks everyone who has played a part in his decorated NFL career.

But there's one glaring omission in the 44-year-old's emotional 960-word letter.

The legendary quarterback chose not to mention his former employers the New England Patriots - that's right, not once.

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After 22 seasons in the NFL, where he won seven Super Bowls and created a bunch of iconic memories, Brady has finally called time on his career following swirling retirement rumours.

It wasn't quite the fairytale finish he would have hoped for after his Tampa Bay Buccaneers side went crashing out in the Divisional Round, but Brady leaves behind a legacy which will go down in NFL folklore.

"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 said via Instagram.

"There is a physical, mental and emotional challenge EVERY single day that has allowed me to maximise my highest potential. And I have tried my very best these past 22 years. There are no shortcuts to success on the field or in life.

"This is difficult for me to write, but here it goes: I am not going to make that competitive commitment anymore. 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. 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 GOAT? It's hard to argue against it.

But even greatness must give thanks to the people around them, so Brady took the time to pen an open letter which personally addressed the Bucs fans, his Bucs teammates, the city of Tampa, head coach Bruce Arians, GM Jason Licht, the Buccaneers staff and his own coaches.

He even made special mention of his parents, extended family, his kids and his wife Gisele.

However, Brady did not mention the New England Patriots, head coach Bill Belichick or owner Robert Kraft - an organisation where he spent the majority of his decorated career.

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This damning details was picked up by a number of eagle-eyed people, including Bill Simmons.

"Brady retires with a 9-part Instagram post that never mentions the Patriots, Belichick or the Krafts. INTERESTING," Simmons tweeted.

That said, Patriots owner Kraft did release a statement of his own, which Brady replied to.

"Thank you Patriots nation," Brady said.

"I'm beyond grateful. Love you all."

Topics: American Football, Tom Brady, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, NFL, Australia, American Football, Tom Brady, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, NFL, Australia

Max Sherry

Max Sherry is a journalist for SPORTbible Australia. After migrating Down Under from London as a teenager, he instantly fell in love with Aussie sport and its culture. From NRL to AFL, cricket to rugby — you name it, Max watches it (with a beer in hand, of course). During his time at Fox Sports, he worked in the football department covering the Premier League, A-League, Socceroos and Matildas. Born a stone's throw away from West Ham's training ground, Max is obviously a die-hard Liverpool fan.

@maxysherry