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Brazilian soccer icon Pele passed away on December 29. The soccer great shared a special bond with Tom Brady, and the duo had the utmost respect for each other.
Pele is considered the GOAT of soccer, while Brady belongs in the same category when it comes to the NFL.
Last season, when Brady announced his retirement from the NFL after losing to the Los Angeles Rams, Pele shared a heartfelt message for the 7-time Super Bowl winner.
Here's what Pele wrote in a post about Brady after the Bucs QB announced his retirement from the NFL:
"My friend @tombrady, congratulations on your beautiful journey. You are a legend. As of today, an era in sport also ends. The decision to stop is difficult, but you are right."
He added:
"In this life we lead, there is no possibility of surrendering less than 100%. Before, I was rooting for your victory in the games."
"Now I keep hoping that your life will always be full of achievements. Now that you will have more time, when you stop by, I expect a hug from you and @gisele."
Although Brady returned this season to play for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the words shared by the Brazilian icon will be remembered forever. It showed how much he respected Brady and what he has achieved in the NFL.
Both Brady's and Pele's careers will be celebrated forever as they have been at the pinnacle of their respective sports.
Tom Brady doesn't look like he's retiring anytime soon
Despite being 45 years old and the current oldest player in the NFL, it seems like Brady isn't done playing football. This season hasn't gone well for him and his team, but they are still likely to make the playoffs.
Injuries have hindered the season for the Buccaneers, but they could shock many if they manage to reach the playoffs.
Tom Brady is still hungry to win more Super Bowls, and after getting divorced from Gisele Bundchen, he could very well go on and play a couple more years.
He will be a free agent next season, and there is a high possibility that he won't return to the Buccaneers.
Teams like the New York Jets and Las Vegas Raiders are likely to be interested in signing Brady in 2023.
