In 2016, the sports world has seen a lot of athletes ride off into the sunset. What makes this year so special and sad at the time is that most of the athletes who have retired were once considered the best in their sport. Let's go over the list.
5. Marshawn Lynch
The man known as " Beast Mode" decided to call it a career. Lynch, who is only 29 years old played a total of seven games during the 2015 season, as he dealt with lingering hamstring and abdominal injuries. Lynch announced his retirement in his own unique fashion. On Feb. 7, 2016, Lynch tweeted a picture of hanging cleats with a peace sign emoji, telling the world he plans to retire. Lynch's retirement message is not the norm, but for him, it was perfect. The five-time Pro Bowler and one-time Super Bowl Champion finished his nine-year career with 9,112 yards and 74 touchdowns.
4. Jeff Gordon
Jeff Gordon is one of NASCAR's all-time greats. Gordon ran his final full-time season in 2015, finishing third in the Sprint Cup standings. The four-time Cup Series Championship winner had a huge impact and contribution to the success of NASCAR. Throughout Gordon's 23 year career he has been a great ambassador for the sport. Gordon still remains the first and only NASCAR driver to host "Saturday Night Live."
3. Calvin Johnson
Calvin Johnson is the most prolific wide receiver in Detroit Lions history and one of the most talented athletes in NFL history. The man they called "Megatron", retired after the 2015 season after dealing with a number of injuries. Johnson holds 15 NFL records and accumulated over 11,000 receiving yards and six Pro-Bowl selections during his nine seasons in the NFL. He joins the list of star athletes, including Detroit Lions legend Barry Sanders, who retired at the age of 30 or younger.
2. Peyton Manning
The former Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos quarterback ended his 18-year career the way any legend should: as a champion. Manning retired after riding off into the sunset on top of the NFL world by leading the Denver Broncos to a 24-10 victory against the Carolina Panthers at Super Bowl 50. Manning's ability to have complete control of the field and his unparalleled intelligence will always be respected through the NFL lore. He ended his career with an NFL record 539 touchdowns and five MVP awards. The "Sheriff" leaves the game undoubtedly, one of the best of all-time.
1. Kobe Bryant
The " Black Mamba" announced on Nov. 29 that the 2015 NBA season would be his last. Bryant was one of the NBA's most dominant athletes in its history. He was a winner, competitor, warrior and a basketball genius that gave his heart and soul to the game of basketball. His last couple seasons were hard to watch as he endured numerous injuries and the Lakers losing, with a record of 65-181 since the 2013 season. But in Bryant's swan song against the Utah Jazz, he gave NBA fans a moment they will never forget. In vintage Kobe Bryant fashion, he scored 60 points and led the Lakers to a 101-96 victory over the Jazz. Bryant is a five-time NBA Champion, a two-time NBA Finals MVP, an 18-time NBA All Star and is ranked third on the NBA's all-time scoring list. He is truly a basketball legend.
It is very sad to see these legends go, but they will forever be remembered for their great performances on the biggest sports stages in the world.
