Riyadh: Seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady has announced his return to the field, but this time in a flag football tournament set to take place in Saudi Arabia. Brady, who retired from professional American football in 2023, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating that he "couldn't be more excited to return to the field."
According to BBC, the 48-year-old former quarterback will join a lineup of current and former NFL stars for the inaugural tournament scheduled for March 21 in Riyadh. The event will feature teams coached by renowned NFL figures Pete Carroll, Sean Payton, and Kyle Shanahan. Organizers have also hinted at the inclusion of participants from various sectors of sports and entertainment, although further details are yet to be disclosed.
Brady highlighted the significance of flag football, stating, "I've always admired the power of flag football and how it connects fans of all ages." He expressed his excitement about showcasing the sport on a global platform and being part of a gathering of highly skilled athletes.
Flag football is recognized as the most inclusive and accessible form of American football. This fast-paced, non-contact version of the game is gaining popularity globally, with millions of viewers. Instead of the traditional tackling, players must pull a flag from the waist of the player holding the ball.
The sport is experiencing rapid growth, particularly in the women's segment, which played a crucial role in its inclusion in the 2028 Olympics. Governed by the International Federation of American Football, flag football boasts 75 national federations as members. According to the NFL, there are currently 20 million players worldwide, with a record number of 31 nations participating in the previous year's Flag Football World Championships.