NEW YORK (Reuters) – Shaquille O’Neal, one of the most successful and recognizable players in professional basketball, announced his retirement on Wednesday, ending a career that spanned almost two decades and helped increase the popularity of the sport outside the United States.
A giant of a man who wore size 23 shoes but endeared himself to millions of people around the globe both through his performances on the court and his sometimes wacky sense of humor, he typically chose an unusual way of delivering his news, posting a video on a social media website.
“We did it. Nineteen years baby. I want to thank you very much, that’s why I’m telling you first, I’m about to retire. Thank you, talk to you soon,” he said in the message.
The 39-year-old, who has been struggling with an Achilles injury, later told ESPN during a brief telephone interview that he hadn’t really wanted to retire but his body and age had dictated he quit.
“I’m going to miss the competition. I’m going to miss the chase for the ring. I’m actually going to miss everything,” he said.
O’Neal, who was popularly known as “The Shaq,” said he planned to hold a formal news conference at his home
Read More from the Article Source: Full Article
