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Harper retiring from HR Derby after win: 'Don't have to do it ever again'

Patrick Smith / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Bryce Harper is going out on top.

The Washington Nationals star stormed back for an epic Home Run Derby title in front of his hometown fans at Nationals Park on Monday and announced afterward that it will be the last time he'll compete at the event.

"I don't have to do it ever again. My oblique is going to be feeling it tomorrow," Harper said, according to Bill Shaikin of the Los Angeles Times.

With his father Ron pitching to him, Harper knocked out Freddie Freeman and Max Muncy before walking off Kyle Schwarber 19-18 in the final round to take home the honor.

It was the second time the Harpers have taken part in the event and the first time since 2013 when they lost in the final to Yoenis Cespedes.

During his postgame press conference, Harper was asked what he would tell other players who are considering taking part in the event.

"If it wasn't in front of my home crowd I wouldn't have done it," Harper said. "If it is your home crowd, 100 percent do it."

Harper has spent all seven of his big-league campaigns with the Nationals but is set to hit free agency at season's end. He admitted that winning the event in his home stadium with his dad was one of the most special moments of his career.

"That’s the kid in me you guys saw tonight," he said, according to Chelsea Janes of the Washington Post. "I was very fortunate to share that with you tonight."

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