Two times German football star Sebastian Vollmer won the Super Bowl together with Tom Brady. After the official end of Brady’s career, the 37-year-old paid tribute to his former teammate in an exclusive interview with ran.

Munich – Tom Brady has ended his unique career after 22 NFL years with seven Super Bowl rings. The now 44-year-old announced the news in a long, emotional post on his social media channels.

For seven years, German Sebastian Vollmer played alongside Brady for the New England Patriots. Together they won the Super Bowl twice.

In an exclusive interview with ran, the former offensive tackle talked about perhaps the greatest football player of all time. We summarise Vollmer’s best statements.

Sebastian Vollmer on…

.. Brady’s decision to end his career:

“This decision will not have been easy for him. After such a career, as one of the most successful sportsmen of all time, it’s okay to retire from football in your mid-40s. As a friend, I’m happy for him and glad that all the drama surrounding him over the past few days is now over and he can start this new phase of his life.”

… the timing of the announcement:

“Because of the confusion last weekend, Tom was virtually forced to say something about the issue now. Therefore, he cannot be blamed for the timing of the announcement in the middle of the season. Saying he won’t play next season is fair to his team, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. They have to plan and, yes, find a new quarterback. From a business point of view, he couldn’t have announced it earlier. So he did everything right. From a sporting point of view, you can’t expect to stop at the zenith. Most athletes don’t even get to the Super Bowl. So quitting after a triumph there, as he could have done last year, is not something you can plan for. This season he had another MVP season and set records. He gave everything to get his team to the finals again. It didn’t work out in the end. But we should not presume to discuss the timing. Rather, we should say ‘thank you’ for everything he gave to this sport and to the fans. Personally, I thank him for the memories and successes – he played a big part in that, after all.”

.. the reasons for Brady’s decision:

“I myself stopped playing football out of love for my family. There comes a time when it’s all not worth the effort. Spending time at home and with the children is then more important. Everyone has to decide for themselves when that time comes. To be successful, you have to subordinate everything to football. Tom has always done that. After 22 years in the NFL, getting knocked down every day, to walk off the football field standing tall: Kudos!”

.. Brady’s place in the sport’s pedigree:

“It’s always difficult to compare athletes across generations. I see him at the top, but the outcome of those discussions always depends on who you’re having them with. You just have to appreciate what this person has achieved in his sport. Whether he is then on a par with Muhammad Ali, Roger Federer, Tiger Woods or Kobe Bryant, every fan can know for himself. That’s what makes sport great.

… Tips for his friend’s retirement:

“I’d like the recipe for his avocado tequila shots. Apparently they spread good vibes. Maybe I’ll see you at a beach bar sometime.”

.. the best moments of his time together with Brady:

“I lost to him in a beer drinking contest. At the time I weighed 150 kilograms and he drank me under the table. But seriously, of course the two Super Bowl wins are at the top. But I also remember a lot of little moments, conversations about parenting tips, the personal connection you build with friends on the job.”

.. Brady’s future:

“He should switch off first and not think about football. After all, not only did he play in the NFL for 22 years but before that he played in college, high school and growing up. That’s almost 40 years. It’s good to have nothing to do with football for a month. You only find a new passion once you’ve completely let go. “