Tim Layden announces retirement from Sports Illustrated after 25 years

Tim Layden has been with Sports Illustrated for over 25 years. That run is coming to an end, with Layden announcing his decision via Twitter.

Some personal/professional news: After 25 years + 4 months, today is my last day at Sports Illustrated. I am deeply thankful for every minute of that time. This is completely my decision. Time for a change. A few more words: pic.twitter.com/KVJqVm36tq

— Tim Layden (@ByTimLayden) July 1, 2019

Before anyone jumps to an assumption that Layden is reacting to the recent turmoil involving SI’s ownership, the statement reads, in part:

It is fully my decision to move on, and it was made long before either of the two recent sales involving the SI brand. My departure is not a reaction to the business of SI. It’s just time for a change, while I still have some gas in the tank. I’m retiring from Sports Illustrated, but I am not retiring. I expect to have more news to share on that front in the future, but today is about SI.

Layden’s announcement received plenty of support on Twitter:

Incredible run, Tim!

— Daniel Dale (@ddale8) July 1, 2019

Tim — you've been the gold standard at SI for as long as I've been reading it. It's been a thrill to share the mixed zone with you, and I can't thank you enough for the help & encouragement you've provided. Best of luck in whatever's next.

— Jonathan Gault (@jgault13) July 1, 2019

Think I speak for a lot of aspirants when I say, truly, thank you, Tim. When I was younger I wanted to write like you and now that I’m older … I still want to write like you. You’re the best. Congrats. Can’t wait to see what’s next.

— Brendan Quinn (@BFQuinn) July 1, 2019

Congratulations on a fantastic career, Tim

— Ramona Shelburne (@ramonashelburne) July 1, 2019

Layden had a great run at SI, and surely he’ll be back in business shortly. It’s hard to imagine him not having his choice of outlet, and just about every option would be lucky to have him.