New York Yankees

Michael Jordan shares a special tribute to Derek Jeter before jersey retirement

Published May. 13, 2017 10:13 a.m. ET

Chris Bahr

The Yankees will retire Derek Jeter’s No. 2 in Monument Park on Sunday, giving the legendary shortstop a permanent place in franchise history. And a day before the ceremony, another legend paid tribute to Jeter.

Michael Jordan penned a special message to Jeter on The Players’ Tribune:

Derek,

A legacy is built by more than what is seen. It is not given, it is earned.

Beyond your 20 years in the Majors and an endless list of accolades, it was your love and respect for the game that set you apart.

Your pursuit of greatness on and off the field has set the standard for others to follow.

Much RE2PECT on cementing your legacy and having your No. 2 jersey retired.

Congratulations.

Your friend,

Michael

Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports

There aren’t many professional athletes who can overshadow Jeter, who played at a ridiculously high level on the sport’s biggest stage for two decades – but Jordan is one of them. And that had to make this tribute even more special for The Captain. The ceiling really was the roof.