Hockey fans had heartfelt goodbyes for the iconic Patrice Bergeron as he announced his NHL retirement

What an emotional day in Boston.

After over 20 seasons with the Boston Bruins, where he made a name for himself by being one of the best two-way players in NHL history, Patrice Bergeron is hanging up his skates.

On Tuesday, the six-time Selke Award winner, three-time All-Star, and 2011 Stanley Cup champion revealed he was retiring from the NHL via a statement with the Bruins. Bergeron leaves behind a legacy as the heart and soul of the Bruins’ operations and as one of the more complete players in the modern era.

Bergeron seemed understandably emotional in his retirement statement:

“As hard as it is to write, I also write it knowing how blessed and lucky I feel to have had the career that I have had, and that I have the opportunity to leave the game I love on my terms. It wasn’t a decision that I came to lightly. But after listening to my body, and talking with my family, I know in my heart that this is the right time to step away from playing the game I love.”

A salute to a legend and one of the classier players in NHL history.