Rob Gronkowski retires: How the sports world reacted on social media

Adam Schefter says Rob Gronkowski’s injuries took a toll on his body, and he wanted to enter the next phase of his life. (1:42)

New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski announced his retirement on Sunday, capping a colorful nine-year career which saw “Gronk” dominate on the field and at the postgame party. Needless to say, reaction to the news came quick on social media. Here’s some of the reaction to the retirement of a likely Hall of Famer.

What an honor and privledge to play with you these past nine years @gronk! You accomplished so much and our team was almost unbeatable when you were on the field! Your fun-loving, inspiring, and positive energy made an impact on everybody you came into contact with! Not just that, but for as great as a player you are, you are a better teammate and person. The NFL was a better place with you in it! But I have no doubt you will be a success in anything you do!!! Love you pal!

A post shared by Tom Brady (@tombrady) on

The other goat 🐐 #gronk pic.twitter.com/FzCfT38BjR

Gronk dancing into retirement as a 3-time Super Bowl champ like… (via @thecheckdown) pic.twitter.com/nsKKgdaExq

Happy retirement big fella @RobGronkowski , one of the best ever TE’s

Congrats on an incredible career @RobGronkowski. One of the best to ever do it. Best wishes on whatever comes next!

🐐 https://t.co/5ptEImqd0v

@RobGronkowski the utmost pleasure watching you dominate throughout your career. Thank you for paving the way and showing what it takes to be great!! #RESPECT

Never forget the time Gronk threw Sergio Brown out the club. pic.twitter.com/mNZ586PNhb

Gronk one of the most dominant players to put on a helmet. Amazing career.

thank youu for the amazing moments @RobGronkowski 🐐💯

@RobGronkowski congrats to one of the best to ever do it! So dope to see you go out on your time. Good luck on ur continued success brother! Ps u never gave me that fade back from the super bowl! 😂🤷🏾‍♂️

Man Gronk changed the game. Respectfully, there is no Kelce/Ertz/Graham/Olson types without Gronk… https://t.co/oeHUrvZ4Hf

For the past 9 years, after each week, one of the first guys reception targets I would go watch was @RobGronkowski. Some stuff I would steal, other stuff only he could do. Incredible career and enjoy what’s next. See you in canton

👊🏻

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