Wayne Gretzky is leaving the Edmonton Oilers, relinquishing his role as vice chairman effective Tuesday.

"Given the pandemic and other life changes, I realize I will not be able to dedicate the time nor effort needed to support this world-class organization," the 60-year-old wrote on Twitter.

Gretzky rejoined the Oilers as a partner and vice chair in October 2016, many years after achieving legendary status with the club as a player. He worked closely with team owner Daryl Katz and CEO Bob Nicholson during his latest tenure with the team.

"The Great One" enjoyed the best years of his illustrious playing career with Edmonton, winning four Stanley Cups and accomplishing the majority of his otherworldly offensive exploits.

ESPN reportedly approached Gretzky recently about a broadcasting role. He hadn't dismissed the network's advances, but his level of interest was unclear. One day later, it was reported ESPN was out of the running for his services and that he could still land at TNT. The latter is the other network taking over the NHL's U.S. TV rights next season.

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