Rare indeed is the gladiator who knows the best time to sheath his sword. I am glad for him, and wish him as much success in the remainder of his life.
I know Darrell Waltrip says he wishes he had retired from driving in NASCAR earlier. He went quite a few years without a win (Or even being at all competitive) before he retired.
I think its one of the reasons so many are retiring young like Jeff Gordon. He won in his final year and had a legitimate shot at the championship.