NFL legend Rob Gronkowski, 33, retires for second time

Gronkowski's career was intertwined with that of seven-time Super Bowl winner Tom Brady

Four-time Super Bowl champion Rob Gronkowski has retired from the NFL for a second time, saying the "friendships I have made will last forever".

The 33-year-old stepped away from the sport in 2019, but was enticed back to reunite with long-time team-mate Tom Brady at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Gronkowski won his fourth Super Bowl as the Buccaneers beat the Kansas City Chiefs 31-9 in February 2021.

It was Tampa Bay's first Super Bowl title in 18 years.

"I will now be going back into my retirement home, walking away from football again with my head held high, knowing I gave it everything I had, good or bad, every time I stepped out on the field," said Gronkowski, who won his three previous Super Bowl titles with the New England Patriots.

He has made 621 receptions for 9,286 yards and 92 touchdowns during his NFL career.