Tom Brady reflects on fatherhood, career in latest message

Tom Brady has sparked a new round of speculation about his high-profile divorce from Gisele Bundchen with his latest message to fans. 

In a newsletter reflecting on fatherhood, work, and the choices that shaped his life, Brady addressed the balance between professional ambition and family responsibilities, a topic that was at the heart of his breakup with Bundchen.

Brady wrote, "I think part of being a great father is being a great example of doing what it takes to take care of your family. I chose to do it by playing football." 

He went on, "My dedication to the sport, the hours of practice, the moments when I was laser focused, those were times when I believe I was doing the best possible thing for my family and my kids... By prioritizing my profession and teaching, by example, what it takes to be really good at your job, what it takes to follow through on commitments, what it takes to be a great teammate; and showing them, also by example, that work is a big part of all of our lives."

The message appears to address concerns raised by Bundchen about Brady's commitment to football. In a 2022 interview with Elle magazine, Bundchen said, "Obviously, I have my concerns, this is a very violent sport, and I have my children and I would like him to be more present." 

His letter seems to respond to these concerns, making the case that his career was a key way he sought to provide and be a role model.

The former NFL quarterback wrote, "Reading bedtime stories and helping them with homework are not the only ways to be a great parent. And neither is winning Super Bowls or MVPs," he wrote. 

"Being a great football player didn't make me a great dad, but how I became a great player certainly had an impact, from showing up day in and day out, to doing whatever it took to get better, be successful, be a role model, and to provide."

The couple's split became official in the fall of 2023, but public conversations about the reasons for the breakup have lingered. 

In his letter, he added, "You won't be perfect. Nobody is. You will fail and disappoint people along the way. But if you stay committed to your goals over time, even when your priorities shift (which they do at times), then you can be confident that you are living a life of integrity and purpose." 

He concluded with a message that resonates well beyond the football field: "Your actions reflect your priorities. That's what you need to live up to every day."