After dominating the tight end position for nine seasons with the New England Patriots, three-time Super Bowl Champion Rob Gronkowski is going out on top.

The 29-year-old took to Instagram to announce his retirement from the game of football in a heartfelt post.
 

 

@gronk’s full statement on announcing his retirement.

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Gronkowski transcended the position, becoming one of the most prolific red-zone targets during his peak. As dominant as he was on the field, staying healthy was the biggest challenge, as the product Amherst, New York, battled endured multiple concussions and injuries throughout his career to his back, ankle, hip, knee and forearm.

"It's time to move forward and move forward with a big smile on my face knowing that the New England Patriots organization, Pats nation and all my fans will truly be a big part of my heart for the rest of my life," Gronkowski wrote on his Instagram post. "It was truly an incredible honor to play for such a great, established organization."

A five-time Pro Bowler, Gronkowski racked up 79 touchdowns on 521 regular-season catches for 7,861 yards.

Here's how the football and sports world reacted.