Derek Jeter ended his 20-year career with the New York Yankees Thursday night with a walk-off single in the ninth inning that won his final home game.

Derek Jeter Wins Last Home Game

It was an emotional night in Yankee Stadium, as Jeter took to the field one last time. The team captain received a lot of love from the fans in the stands, as well as those watching at home – hashtags in his honor, including #Re2pect and #FarewellCaptain, were trending all night on Twitter.

Jeter’s retirement is underway, and, though his last game in the regular season isn’t until Sunday, Thursday night marked his last at bat in Yankee Stadium. It was also his last game playing shortstop. It’s fitting, then, that Jeter (aka 'Captain Clutch') would win the game for the Yankees at his last at-bat.

Jeter was immediately bombarded with hugs by his teammates, and the crowd went wild as Jeter took a victory lap around the field. In a press conference after the game, Jeter admitted he was emotional throughout the night, and told reporters that, when he went for his last at-bat, all he was thinking was “Don’t cry.”

When asked what he would miss the most, Jeter was quick to respond. “Everything, but most importantly, I’m gonna miss the fans. They’re what made this special,” Jeter said, eliciting screams from the crowd.

Jeter wasn’t the only star of the night. His young nephew became an overnight sensation when he tipped his ‘Re2pect’ hat to the camera in support of his uncle.

Celebrities Congratulate Jeter On Twitter

Article by Olivia Truffaut-Wong

Olivia Truffaut-Wong was born and raised in Berkeley, California, where she developed her love of all things entertainment. After moving to New York City to earn her degree in Film Studies, she stayed on the East Coast to follow her passion and become an entertainment writer. She lives on a diet of television, movies and food.