Peyton Manning announced his retirement from the sport of professional football on Monday as expected. Manning retired as a champion and ended his very impressive 18-year career playing for the Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos.

"There's something about 18 years, 18 is a good number, and today I retire from professional football. I fought a good fight. I finished my football race, and after 18 years, it's time. God bless all of you, and God bless football," Manning said.

The 39-year-old quarterback gave his gratitude towards his five former coaches in the NFL, all of his former teammates and agent Tom Condon. Broncos general manager John Elway praised Manning, saying that Denver would not have won a Super Bowl without the Louisiana-native.

He then fetched questions from the members of the media, including inquiries on his health, the thought of playing a 19th season, as well as some controversial topics.

Comments on Sexual Assault Allegations

During his press conference, Manning was asked by a reporter about the sexual assault allegations against him and other University of Tennessee athletes. Six unnamed women filed the lawsuit on Feb. 9 for violation of Title IX regulations in 1996.

"I think it is sad that some people don't understand the truth and the facts. And I did not do what has been alleged. And I'm not interested in re-litigating something that happened when I was 19 years old," Manning responded. "Like Forrest Gump said, 'That's all I have to say about that.'"

The two-time Super Bowl winner was previously involved in a similar lawsuit in 1997 with Tennessee athletic trainer Dr. Jamie Naughright. She accused Manning of placing his genitals on her face while his foot injury was being examined.

The lawsuit was later settled for $300,000 and an agreement was made, with Dr. Naughright agreeing to leave the University of Tennessee.

Manning's Legacy

The five-time NFL MVP is considered one of the greatest quarterbacks to have ever played the game. He has two Super Bowl rings to go along with a lot of NFL records. He's also one of the faces of the league since being drafted first overall by the Colts in 1998.

He's a sure-fire first-ballot Hall of Famer when he becomes eligible to be inducted in 2021. He has played a total of 293 games in his career, including the playoffs with 200 wins, 79,279 yards and 579 touchdowns.

Manning is also a 14-time Pro Bowler and was named to the All-Pro team 10 times in his career.

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