Toni Kroos, the iconic German midfielder, has bid farewell to professional soccer following his team's defeat in the quarterfinals of Euro 2024. The 34-year-old announced his retirement in May, and Sunday's match against Spain marked the culmination of an illustrious 17-year career.
**Berlin, Germany** - Toni Kroos, the legendary German midfielder, has officially retired from professional soccer after his team's dramatic loss to Spain in the quarterfinals of Euro 2024. The 34-year-old announced his retirement in May, and Sunday's match marked the culmination of an illustrious 17-year career.
Kroos, a key figure in Germany's 2014 World Cup triumph, took to Instagram to announce his retirement, expressing gratitude to his fans, clubs, coaches, teammates, and family. "But before I take a break and at least try to realize what happened over the last 17 years I don’t want to miss the opportunity to say thank you to everyone accepting me how and who I am," he wrote.
Kroos went on to apologize to Spain's Pedri, who sustained a knee injury in a challenge with Kroos during the quarterfinal game and was forced to miss the remainder of Euro 2024. "Thank you Toni Kroos for your message," Pedri wrote on social media. "This is soccer and these things happen. Your career and your record remain forever."
Despite Spain's victory, Pedri expressed his continued commitment to the team. "I came to Germany for Euro 2024 and I will continue here, until the end," he wrote. "Because, do not doubt it, the dream continues."
Kroos' retirement brings to an end a glittering career that has seen him win numerous titles with Real Madrid and Bayern Munich. Among his accolades are six Champions League titles, four Spanish league titles, three Bundesligas, three German Cups, and one Copa del Rey.
His 114 appearances for Germany also saw him play a pivotal role in the country's World Cup victory in Brazil in 2014. Kroos' retirement marks the end of an era for German soccer, as he joins a growing list of legendary players who have recently announced their departures from the international game.
In his retirement post, Kroos thanked soccer for the beautiful game it has been for him. "Over and out," he concluded.
The news of Kroos' retirement has been met with an outpouring of tributes and well wishes from the soccer world.
"Toni Kroos is one of the greatest midfielders of all time," said Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti. "His intelligence, his passing, his vision, his control of the game - he has everything."
"It's the end of an era," said Germany coach Hansi Flick. "Toni has been a role model for so many young players. He always played with heart and passion, and he was always a winner."
"Toni is a true legend of the game," said former Bayern Munich teammate Franck Ribery. "He was a joy to play with, and he will be missed."
As he leaves the world of professional soccer, Toni Kroos can look back on an incredible career filled with countless achievements and memories. His impact on the game will be felt for years to come.
