May old acquaintance be forgot: The notable athletes who retired in 2023
Imagine a right-handed pitcher with a blazing fastball, a wicked slider that dipped like a UFO and a signature entrance that felt like a mosh pit. That, my friends, was Sergio Romo, a 15-year reliever drafted in the 28th round (practically the last pick!). He became a key cog in the Giants’ three World Series victories (2010, 2012, 2014), famously fanning Miguel Cabrera to clinch the 2012 title. At 40, he steps away with 137 career saves, having played for the Giants, Twins, Rays, A’s, Dodgers, Mariners, Marlins, and Blue Jays.
Retirement is a bittersweet moment for any athlete. It marks the end of a long and illustrious career, filled with triumphs, defeats, and memories that will last a lifetime. In 2023, several notable athletes from various sports decided to hang up their jerseys and call it a day. Let’s take a look at some of the athletes who retired this year and the legacies they leave behind.
Sergio Romo, the flamboyant relief pitcher, is one of the most recognizable names on the retirement list. Romo’s unorthodox pitching style and larger-than-life personality made him a fan favorite wherever he went. He played a crucial role in the San Francisco Giants’ three World Series victories, earning a reputation as a clutch performer. Romo’s retirement marks the end of an era for the Giants and leaves a void in the bullpen that will be hard to fill.
Another notable retirement in 2023 was that of Maria Sharapova, a former tennis superstar. Sharapova burst onto the scene at a young age, winning her first Grand Slam title at the age of 17. She went on to win a total of five Grand Slam titles and became one of the most marketable athletes in the world. However, injuries and a doping scandal tarnished her later years, and Sharapova decided to retire at the age of 35. Despite the controversies, Sharapova will always be remembered as one of the most talented and fierce competitors in women’s tennis.
In the world of basketball, Pau Gasol bid farewell to the sport in 2023. Gasol, a two-time NBA champion and six-time NBA All-Star, had a successful career that spanned over two decades. He was known for his versatility, basketball IQ, and exceptional skill set. Gasol played for several NBA teams, including the Los Angeles Lakers, where he won his championships alongside Kobe Bryant. Gasol’s retirement marks the end of an era for Spanish basketball, as he was one of the country’s most successful and beloved athletes.
On the football field, Vincent Jackson’s retirement left a void in the wide receiver position. Jackson, who played for the San Diego Chargers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, was known for his size, speed, and ability to make acrobatic catches. He was a three-time Pro Bowler and surpassed the 1,000-yard receiving mark in six different seasons. Jackson’s retirement saddened football fans, but his contributions to the game will not be forgotten.
These are just a few of the notable athletes who retired in 2023. Each one leaves behind a unique legacy and a lasting impact on their respective sports. Retirement may mark the end of their professional careers, but their accomplishments and contributions will continue to inspire future generations of athletes.
As we bid farewell to these retired athletes, let us remember the joy they brought to millions of fans around the world and celebrate their extraordinary achievements. They have left an indelible mark on the sports they played and will forever be remembered as legends of the game. May old acquaintance be forgot, but the memories of these athletes will live on.
