10 Retired Players Who Made the Biggest Comebacks in Sports History
For some players, sports is not just a game but a calling. So, retirement isn’t the end but a chance to recharge before answering the field’s call again. From shocking returns to final acts, these 10 players prove that leaving the game is sometimes an opportunity to return better.
Michael Jordan
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Before retiring in 1993, Michael Jordan had led the Chicago Bulls to six NBA championships. However, after a brief stint in baseball, he returned to the NBA in 1995, leading the Bulls to three more consecutive championships. He’s considered one of the greatest athletes ever, and for good reason.
Jim Ramey
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After being drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 1979, Jim Ramey bounced around the NFL, CFL, and USFL. He initially retired in 1986 after the Tampa Bay Bandits folded, but the 1987 NFL players’ strike brought him back. Ramey joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers playing three games.
Muhammad Ali
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Although Muhammad Ali retired in 1979, the lure of the ring and its financial reward proved irresistible, and in 1980, he returned to face Larry Holmes. Despite his legendary status, Ali could not recapture his former glory, with the fight ending in a technical knockout—the only stoppage loss of his career.
Kim Clijsters
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Kim Clijsters retired from tennis in 2007 to start a family, having already secured a US Open title. However, she made a remarkable return in 2009, winning the US Open as an unseeded player. Interestingly, Kim’s daughter Jada was on stage to hoist the trophy at 18 months old.
Tom Brady
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After announcing retirement in February 2023, Brady shocked everyone by returning only 40 days later. Already the most decorated quarterback, his decision stirred debates about legacy and longevity. His return to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers reenergized the team with his signature leadership on the field.
Mario Lemieux
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Mario Lemieux, a dominant force in the NHL, retired in 1997 due to health issues. However, he made a sensational return in 2000, scoring 76 points in 43 games that season. His ability to perform at a high level after a long hiatus proved his talent and passion for hockey.
Jason Witten
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Jason Witten called it quits in 2018 after 15 seasons with the Dallas Cowboys, leaving as one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history. But retirement didn’t stick—he returned in 2019 after a brief broadcasting stint. Witten’s comeback added much-needed depth to the Cowboys’ offense.
George Foreman
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George Foreman hung up his gloves in 1977 after a successful career, including a heavyweight title. Still, he made headlines with an unexpected comeback in 1987 and, at age 45, became the oldest heavyweight champion by defeating Michael Moorer. There’s no doubt that for Foreman, age was just a number.
Ricky Williams
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The 1998 Heisman winner shocked the NFL by retiring at 27 in 2004, ditching a $5M contract for personal adventures. But financial woes and a lingering itch for the game dragged him back in 2005. Despite his highly publicized personal issues, he silenced critics with a 1,000-yard season at 32.
Lance Armstrong
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Lance Armstrong overcame health challenges to win seven consecutive Tour de France titles from 1999 to 2005. Although he retired in 2005, Armstrong returned to cycling four years later, finishing third on that year’s Tour. Sadly, his seemingly inspiring comeback would be marred by doping revelations.
Roger Clemens
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Roger Clemens, a dominant MLB pitcher, retired in 2003 but returned the next year to play for the Houston Astros. That year, he won the Cy Young Award, demonstrating his excellence on the mound. In his final season in 2007, he started 17 games and had 68 strikeouts.
Randy Moss
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After an abrupt 2011 retirement following a lackluster season split between three teams, Moss couldn’t resist one last shot at glory and returned in 2012 with the 49ers. His stats were modest (28 receptions, 3 TDs), and his presence stretched defenses, proving he could impact games regardless.
Martina Navratilova
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Martina Navratilova retired from singles tennis in 1994 after a successful career that included 18 Grand Slam singles titles. She returned to doubles, winning the mixed doubles title at the 2003 Australian Open. At the 2004 Wimbledon, she became the oldest player to win a professional singles match at 47.
Eric Weddle
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This versatile safety retired in 2019 after 13 standout seasons. However, in 2021, Eric Weddle joined the Rams mid-season for a playoff push, proving his worth in their Super Bowl LVI win. Weddle remains among the few players who won a Super Bowl after initial retirement.