The New Orleans Saints' veteran Super Bowl-winning quarterback Drew Brees has announced his retirement at the age of 42.
Brees led the Saints to the only Super Bowl triumph in their franchise history in the 2009 season.
That emotional victory over the Indianapolis Colts, after which he was named most valuable player, came three years after the city of New Orleans was devastated by Hurricane Katrina.
Brees' message was accompanied by a video from his four children, who said together: "After 15 years in the Saints, and 20 years in the NFL, our dad is finally going to retire, so he can spend more time with us!"
Saints immediately paid tribute to Brees, tweeting: "You came to us at our lowest point. You led us to our highest.
"You represented our state, city, and team with incredible professionalism, class, and toughness. We are forever grateful for the immeasurable impact you and your family had on this city."
Head coach Sean Payton, who joined the Saints alongside Brees in 2006, added: "He was a magnificent leader both on and off the field. His attention to detail and competitive spirit were infectious.
"For all of us that have had the chance to coach him, it has been our privilege, we are better for it."
