Real Madrid star announces international retirement | OneFootball

A leading member of the defensive ranks at La Liga heavyweights Real Madrid has on Tuesday called time on his playing career at international level. The Blancos star in question? Antonio Rüdiger.

Stopper Rüdiger for his part featured prominently this summer, as the German national team made the trip to North America for the 2026 World Cup. All told, the former Chelsea man played his part in all four of his nation’s fixtures.

After another difficult campaign for Die Mannschaft, culminating in a Round-of-32 exit at the hands of Paraguay, however, Rüdiger has made the call to bring down the curtain on his career with Germany.

As per a lengthy statement across the official social media platforms of the 33-year-old on Tuesday:

‘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. 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. 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.

A huge thank you goes to: My teammates: 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. The entire coaching and support staff: Thank you for the years of trust and the work behind the scenes. 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. And of course, to you fans: Thank you for your support—especially for the unforgettable atmosphere at our home EURO 2024.

For me, a new chapter now begins, in which I will fully focus on my club. Thank you for the shared journey.

‘Your Toni.’

Rüdiger closes out his international career with an impressive 86 caps, with a FIFA Confederations Cup, won back in 2017, to show for his efforts.

Conor Laird – GSFN