Tom Brady received a message from one of the other elite quarterbacks of his generation, and a long-time rival in the AFC.

Peyton Manning wrote a message to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback, who on Tuesday officially announced his retirement. Manning congratulated Brady on an unbelievable career, as Manning was one quarterback who stood toe to toe with Brady during his career as the most success QB in NFL history. Brady has retired after he won 7 Super Bowls and setting numerous records in an incredible 22-year career.

“To do it as long as he did,” Manning wrote, “at the highest of levels, is absolutely incredible. It was an honor and privilege to compete against him on the field, and I truly appreciate his friendship off the field. I have always admired and respected his competitiveness, his dedication, his discipline and his commitment to being the best. I wish him the best in his next chapter. Congratulations again, Pal!”

Manning and Brady played each other 17 times, and Brady won the head-to-head series 11–6.

After reports emerged over the weekend that the Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback would retire, and Manning said Brady should announce it on his terms, Brady made it clear after his agent and others disputed the initial reports.