NSW Premier Mike Baird would not comment on whether he retired from politics before he got the “tap on the shoulder”.
Speaking exclusively to 9NEWS, Mr Baird said he was feeling very “thankful” for his time in the top job.
“I’m very proud to be part of this community,” he said.
I’ve given everything I’ve got to it and I hope that people reflect and feel happy that I’ve done my best to look after them.”
When asked what he was most proud of during his tenure, Mr Baird said he would not “go into the ups and downs of this now”.
Meanwhile, former Prime Minister Tony Abbott said he “mourns” the fact New South Wales will no longer have Mr Baird in politics.
“Mike should be very, very proud for everything he has done for the state of New South Wales,” Mr Abbott said.
Mr Baird today announced he will quit as NSW Premier next week, saying his parents’ and sister's ill health were major factors in his decision.
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Watch 9NEWS’ exclusive interview with Mike Baird in the player above and see the full story on 9NEWS Sydney at 6pm.