Germany defender Antonio Rüdiger has announced his retirement from international football after making 86 appearances for the national team. Rüdiger announced his decision in a statement posted on his official X page, saying he had reflected on his future before deciding to step aside and create an opportunity for younger……
Germany defender Antonio Rüdiger has announced his retirement from international football after making 86 appearances for the national team.
Rüdiger announced his decision in a statement posted on his official X page, saying he had reflected on his future before deciding to step aside and create an opportunity for younger players.
“After some time spent reflecting, the moment has come for me to end my career with the national team and clear the way for the young generation,” Rüdiger said.
The Real Madrid defender made his Germany debut in 2014 and went on to establish himself as a key figure in the national team, featuring at major international tournaments during his 12-year career.
Reflecting on his journey with the German national team, Rüdiger said he never expected his first appearance in the famous DFB jersey to lead to 86 international matches.
“When I first wore the DFB jersey in 2014, I never could have imagined in my wildest dreams that it would ultimately lead to 86 international matches,” he said.
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Rüdiger acknowledged that Germany had endured disappointing results at recent tournaments, including painful defeats, but said his time with the national team had left a lasting impression on him.
“Even though the big title eluded us at the last tournaments and we had to endure some painful defeats, this time was an incredibly special chapter for me—one that will shape me forever,” he said.
The 33-year-old paid tribute to his former teammates, highlighting the battles they shared and the friendships that developed during their time together with Germany.
“For every shared duel and the camaraderie in the locker room and at the team hotel—and above all, for the friendships that will endure far beyond football,” he said.
Rüdiger also thanked Germany’s coaching and support staff for their trust and work throughout his international career.
He singled out former Germany coaches Joachim Löw, Hansi Flick and Julian Nagelsmann for their influence on his development, while also acknowledging Horst Hrubesch, whom he described as his mentor during his time with the youth national teams.
“A special thanks goes to Jogi Löw, Hansi Flick, and Julian Nagelsmann, who accompanied and shaped me on my journey with the DFB. But also to my mentor in the youth national teams, Horst Hrubesch,” he said.
The defender also thanked Germany supporters, particularly recalling the atmosphere generated during Euro 2024, which was hosted on home soil.
“And of course, to you fans: Thank you for your support—especially for the unforgettable atmosphere at our home EURO 2024,” he said.
Rüdiger said his retirement from international football would allow him to concentrate fully on his club career as he begins a new chapter.
“For me, a new chapter now begins, in which I will fully focus on my club,” he said.
He ended his message by thanking supporters and everyone who shared his journey with the national team.
“Thank you for the shared journey.
“Your Toni”
