How Old Was Michael Jordan When He Retired?

By Emma Wilson · October 13, 2029

Michael Jordan retired from professional basketball at the age of 40 after his final season with the Washington Wizards in 2003.

Michael Jordan's Retirement Timeline

Michael Jordan officially retired from the NBA three times during his legendary career. His final retirement came at age 40, marking the end of one of the most iconic basketball journeys in sports history.

Retirement Dates and Ages

First retirement: October 6, 1993 — Age 30
Second retirement: January 13, 1999 — Age 35
Final retirement: April 16, 2003 — Age 40

Jordan’s last NBA game was on April 16, 2003, when he played for the Washington Wizards against the Philadelphia 76ers. He scored 15 points in that game, closing a 15-season career that spanned three decades.

NBA Career Overview

Jordan is widely regarded as the greatest basketball player of all time. His career achievements include six NBA championships, five MVP awards, and 14 All-Star selections. His impact extended beyond statistics, revolutionizing global sports marketing and player influence.

Key Career Highlights

6× NBA Champion (1991–1993, 1996–1998)
6× NBA Finals MVP
5× NBA Most Valuable Player
14× NBA All-Star
10× NBA scoring champion
Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (2009)

Season	Team	Games Played	PPG	Rebounds	Assists
1984–85	Chicago Bulls	82	28.2	6.5	5.9
1990–91	Chicago Bulls	82	31.5	6.0	5.5
1995–96	Chicago Bulls	82	30.4	6.6	4.3
1998–99	Chicago Bulls	49	28.7	5.8	3.5
2002–03	Washington Wizards	82	20.0	6.1	3.8

Table data source:1, 2

The table illustrates Jordan’s consistent performance across different stages of his career. Even in his final season at age 40, he averaged 20.0 points per game—remarkable for a guard past his prime. His scoring efficiency and leadership remained impactful despite declining athleticism.

Why Did Michael Jordan Retire at 40?

By the 2002–2003 season, Jordan faced increasing physical wear and team rebuilding challenges. The Washington Wizards were in transition, and Jordan, despite still being productive, recognized the need to step aside for younger talent. In interviews, he cited a desire to leave the game while still competitive rather than fade into decline.

Lack of championship contention with the Wizards
Physical toll from decades of intense play
Focus shifting toward ownership and executive roles

Frequently Asked Questions About Michael Jordan’s Retirement

How old was Michael Jordan when he retired for the last time?

Michael Jordan was 40 years old when he retired from the NBA after the 2002–2003 season with the Washington Wizards.

Did Michael Jordan retire more than once?

Yes, Michael Jordan retired three times: first in 1993 (age 30), then in 1999 (age 35), and finally in 2003 (age 40).

What year did Michael Jordan retire from the NBA?

Michael Jordan’s final retirement was in 2003, following the conclusion of the 2002–2003 NBA season.

Why did Michael Jordan come back to play with the Washington Wizards?

Jordan returned to the NBA in 2001 out of competitive passion and a desire to help rebuild the Wizards franchise, in which he held an executive role at the time.

Could Michael Jordan have played longer than age 40?

Theoretically, yes—but Jordan chose to retire at 40 to preserve his legacy and avoid diminishing returns. He emphasized leaving the game on his own terms rather than due to injury or performance drop.