J.J. Watt has been retired for not even four months now, but the future Pro Football Hall of Famer announced that he’s officially retiring from retirement.
No, Watt isn’t returning to the National Football League but is investing in the game of football overseas. On Monday, Watt and former United States midfielder and NWSL star Kealia Watt announced that they become investors in the Championship title winners, Burnley, who have recently been promoted back to the Premier League.
I’m officially retiring from retirement.
Kind of…
Just watch. @BurnleyOfficial
UTC! pic.twitter.com/LGW2H9x90C
— JJ Watt (@JJWatt) May 1, 2023
The couple made the move official in a statement on Monday:
“When you invest in a club that’s been around since 1882, you must have great respect for its history and tradition. We understand that not only are we investing in the squad and manager, we’re investing in the town and its people. We take that responsibility very seriously and intend to work hard in earning their trust and support.”
“We have such great respect for what has been built here by Alan, Vincent and the entire organisation and are looking forward to working with them. We believe that Burnley is a special club with incredible supporters and we want to help continue to elevate its global profile on its return to the Premier League.”
The sports world reacted to the massive announcement on social media:
He retired from the NFL so he’s just out here doing side quests now 😂 https://t.co/lSnoyr13bu
— Noah (@PrimeTimeSonny) May 1, 2023
This is hilarious and super well done. https://t.co/i203R6kIlC
— Joey Hansen (@joeydhansen) May 1, 2023
My club is massive 😂😂😂💜💙 welcome to the family JJ 🏆 #twitterclarets https://t.co/SR45zza9lF
— ClaretsRoundUp (@claretsroundup) May 1, 2023
This is one of the biggest sports stars in America investing in Burnley FC but what's even more interesting is what he and his wife, a US international & experienced NWSL player, may do with Burnley's (currently 3rd tier) women's team – one ripe for a rise to the WSL. https://t.co/JmGx5GJxjz
— Paul (@paulwradio) May 1, 2023
Welcome big man😮💨 https://t.co/Wfa0CFL8Qk pic.twitter.com/jWCqWPCHms
— Jacob (@JacobHorsfall_) May 1, 2023
When will #MLS realize that they are losing investment because there is no open pyramid……#prorel4usa https://t.co/8pRrzalUuG
— Missouri Soccer Guy (@MOSoccerGuy) May 1, 2023
Watt is happening across the pond? 👀🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/X45M7HDHpQ
— Burnley FC 🏆 (@BurnleyOfficial) May 1, 2023