The Most Memorable Athlete Farewell Moments

25 October 2025

There’s something special about saying goodbye on your own terms—especially in the world of sports. Some athletes just know how to exit the stage with style, leaving fans emotional, nostalgic, and downright speechless. Whether it's a tearful goodbye, a fairy-tale ending, or a bittersweet departure, these farewell moments stick with us forever.

Let’s take a look back at some of the most memorable athlete farewell moments that had us cheering, crying, and everything in between.

Michael Jordan’s Second Retirement (1998) – The Perfect Last Shot

Michael Jordan was no stranger to retirement, but his 1998 farewell with the Chicago Bulls felt like something straight out of a movie. Game 6 of the NBA Finals against the Utah Jazz—it was all tied up, time running out, and with one last flick of the wrist, Jordan sank the iconic jumper over Bryon Russell.

That shot wasn’t just a game-winner; it was a career-defining moment. He walked off the court, fist raised, as if he knew he had just sealed his legacy. Of course, he came back years later with the Wizards, but let’s be real—his ‘98 send-off is what we all remember.

Kobe Bryant’s 60-Point Finale (2016) – The Mamba’s Last Roar

Kobe Bryant was more than just an NBA superstar—he was a mentality, a culture, a legend. So when he announced his retirement, everyone knew his last game had to be special. But no one could have scripted this ending any better.

On April 13, 2016, at the Staples Center, Kobe went out doing what he did best—scoring buckets. He dropped a jaw-dropping 60 points in a vintage performance that had fans on their feet all night. His final message to the crowd? "Mamba out." Mic drop.

Derek Jeter’s Walk-Off Goodbye (2014) – The Captain’s Storybook Ending

Baseball fans witnessed one of the most surreal farewells when Derek Jeter played his final home game at Yankee Stadium. With the game tied in the ninth inning, Jeter stepped up to the plate and—like it was straight out of a Hollywood script—knocked a walk-off single to win the game.

It was poetic. It was emotional. And it was so Jeter. As he raised his cap to the roaring crowd, even the most die-hard Red Sox fans had to give respect to the man they loved to hate.

Usain Bolt’s Unexpected Goodbye (2017) – Not the Ending We Expected

For years, Usain Bolt was the fastest man on the planet, dominating the track with his lightning speed and signature celebrations. But his final race at the 2017 World Championships didn’t go as planned.

Running in the 4x100m relay, Bolt pulled up injured with a heartbreaking hamstring cramp. Instead of crossing the finish line in victory, he collapsed on the track, leaving fans stunned. It wasn't the fairy-tale ending we all wanted, but it was a reminder that even the greatest aren't invincible.

Peyton Manning’s Super Bowl Farewell (2016) – Going Out on Top

Few athletes get the chance to retire as champions, but Peyton Manning made sure to leave with a bang. After battling injuries and doubters, he led the Denver Broncos to victory in Super Bowl 50, securing his second championship ring.

It wasn’t his best statistical game, but it didn’t matter. The moment he lifted that Lombardi Trophy, we all knew we had just witnessed a perfect swan song. Manning didn’t announce his retirement right away, but deep down, we all knew it was his last ride.

Abby Wambach’s Final Bow (2015) – Passing the Torch

Abby Wambach wasn’t just a soccer player—she was a warrior on the pitch, a leader, and a symbol of determination. When she played her last game for the U.S. Women’s National Team, it was more than just the end of a career—it was the end of an era.

She subbed out in the 72nd minute, hugging her teammates, as the crowd chanted her name. Afterward, she had one simple message: "Forget me. Forget me so that the next generation can come up and take over." Classic Wambach—always about the team.

Muhammad Ali’s Final Fight (1981) – A Tough Goodbye

Some farewells are triumphant, others are heartbreaking. Muhammad Ali’s final fight falls into the latter category. At 39 years old, the former heavyweight champion stepped into the ring one last time against Trevor Berbick in the “Drama in the Bahamas.”

Ali was a shell of his former self, and though he fought hard, it was clear that Father Time had finally caught up with him. It wasn’t the ending fans wanted, but in true Ali fashion, he handled it with grace. His career was already legendary—one last fight couldn’t change that.

Serena Williams’ Emotional Farewell (2022) – A Final Stand

Serena Williams, arguably the greatest female tennis player of all time, gave us one last show at the 2022 U.S. Open. She fought like only Serena can, pushing herself to the limit, refusing to go down without a fight.

When she finally lost in the third round, the entire stadium stood in ovation. She addressed the crowd, thanking her family, her fans, and her late father. It was raw, emotional, and powerful—just like her career.

Conclusion

Farewells in sports are always emotional, but the best ones leave us with unforgettable memories. Whether it’s a last-second game-winner, a walk-off hit, or just a heartfelt goodbye, these moments remind us why we love sports.

Athletes come and go, but their legacies? Those last forever.