Tom Brady wasn’t the fastest, the strongest, or the most celebrated quarterback coming up. He was overlooked in high school, underwhelming in college, and the Patriots famously picked 199th overall in the sixth round. But something carried him—something deeper than stats or scouting reports. While the football world focused on Bill Belichick’s belief in him, Brady had another anchor: his parents.

“I was so blessed to have a mom and dad that supported my athletic and career journey every step of the way,” he once said. During his rookie season, while Brady was trying to prove he belonged, his mother was quietly battling breast cancer. His father, Tom Sr., stood by her side, and together, they became Brady’s ‘everything to die for’; their love was TB12’s fuel.

Fast-forward to April 19, and Brady took to Instagram to celebrate his parents. Celebrating his parents’ 56th wedding anniversary, he posted a retro photo from their wedding in Browerville, Minnesota, and penned a heartfelt caption. “You’ve shown our whole family what it truly means to build a life of love, laughter and faith,” he wrote.

“We’re endlessly grateful for everything you’ve done and continue to do. Thank you for being the heart of our family.” It wasn’t just a post—it was a tribute to the kind of love and commitment that raised the greatest quarterback of all time.

Even Olympic legend Lindsey Vonn chimed in with a simple but meaningful comment: “The Best. And also MN! 💪❤️” The Minnesota shoutout wasn’t random. Vonn was born in St. Paul. But raised on the slopes of Buck Hill. So, she knows exactly what it means to come from humble beginnings and be shaped by greatness. Just like Brady. Just like the parents who gave him more than a football dream—they gave him roots.

What Brady Sr. and Galynn taught Tom, most certainly, pushed him towards greatness. 7 SBs before he hung up his cleats. And be it Foxborough or the Bay, TB12 walked as a legend. But the lesson in 56 years of togetherness couldn’t help him during his personal relationships.

Tom Brady’s tough few years

Tom Brady might’ve spent two decades defying the clock, but the past few years? They’ve hit differently. After 13 years of marriage, he and Gisele Bündchen finalized their divorce in October 2022. The split came after a whirlwind journey that started with a blind date in 2006, a wedding in 2009, and a decade-plus of magazine covers, championship rings, and co-parenting wins.

But here’s where the playbook shifts. While Gisele has seemingly found a new rhythm—with her jiu-jitsu instructor Joaquim Valente, no less—Brady’s still figuring out the post-retirement blitz. Two months ago, Bündchen reportedly welcomed a baby boy with Valente at age 44. Brady? He’s been linked to model Irina Shayk in the past, and reports from March say he’s “casually dating” again. Not exactly the two-minute drill we’re used to from the GOAT, but it’s a start.

Of course, it’s not just about headlines or rebounds. Brady and Gisele are still co-parenting their two kids—Benjamin, 15, and Vivian, 12—with what seems like genuine teamwork. A source said Gisele has “no animosity” toward Brady and even hopes he finds happiness again. “They’re coparenting really well,” the source added. “Gisele feels incredibly grateful for everything. She’s living her best life and it shows.”

Still, the underlying tone? There’s some contrast in how their post-divorce lives have unfolded. Gisele’s in her “peace and Pilates” era, and Brady’s… well, let’s just say he’s not exactly throwing touchdowns in the love department just yet. But right now, he’s busy building Sin City. And that’s enough on the plate for Tom right now.