Derek Jeter had a 20-year-long career in MLB, wherein he remained a New York Yankees loyalist. He saw numerous players join the Yankees’ frame and leave. Many of those players created a magnificent legacy and became memorable figures for baseball lovers. Some also remained close friends with Jeter beyond retirement, and one such name happened to be CC Sabathia. 

A champion pitcher during his playing days, Sabathia has come into the spotlight for a specific reason. He joined others to send his best wishes to NFL star J.J. Watt. The renowned defensive end for the Arizona Cardinals recently grabbed headlines after announcing his sudden retirement. Watt’s performances captivated many NFL fans and Sabathia clearly was one of them. 

Derek Jeter’s former teammate pens special words for J. J. Watt 

Jeter and Sabathia famously clinched the 2009 World Series trophy as Yankees teammates. Though Jeter retired in 2014 and Sabathia retired in 2019, their friendship remained strong as ever. Sabathia earned the reputation of a genuine ‘team man’, as a player, and he has lived up to the title ever since. Notably, Sabathia was also among the guests attending Jeter’s MLB Hall Of Fame induction ceremony in 2021. 

Epitomizing a radiant sporting spirit, Sabathia has also extended soul support to athletes from other sports. Likewise, Sabathia has done the same with Watt as well. Watt made his NFL debut with the Houston Texans in 2011. Enduring 12 seasons in the NFL, he became a three-time Defensive Player of the Year Award recipient. Now Watt has finally decided to pull down the curtains on his career, much to the surprise of his fans. 

Watt announced the retirement news on his Twitter account, quoting, “Koa’s first ever NFL game. My last ever NFL home game. My heart is filled with nothing but love and gratitude. It’s been an absolute honor and a pleasure.” 

Sabathia shared the news by writing a precious message which stated, “One of the most dominant defensive players ever!! Loved watching you play every Sunday. Congrats on an incredible career and welcome to a new chapter.” 

One fan reacted to Watt’s post, quoting, “First, I’m sorry to see this day. Second, thank you not only for all the great football but also your support of people in Houston through those many years. You represented all of us so well and will not be forgotten.” 

Other fans also reacted in a similar way: 

Therefore, Watt’s fans, including noteworthy personalities, have gone high on praise for the NFL hero. 

Read More – “Not a Humble Fan”- When Derek Jeter Joked About His Former Teammate’s Conflict of Choices in Team Affiliations 

Thus, the conclusion hereby is the fact that Watt is an elite athlete and a role-model humanitarian. 

Watch This Story – From Babe Ruth To Derek Jeter: New York Yankees Icons Whose Jersey Number Has Been Retired 

So, what do you think about J.J. Watt’s decision to retire? Do you believe he should have played for a few more years, or did he make the perfect call? Kindly let us know in the comments section.