Kroos Pens Emotional Farewell After Retirement Is Confirmed
Toni Kroos has penned an emotional farewell to the football family after his retirement was confirmed.
Kroos' last game was in the EURO 2024 quarterfinal on Friday when Germany lost 2-1 to Spain.
The 34-year-old had already announced that this summer's tournament was going to be his last.
"So that's it. But before I take a break and at least try to realise what happened over the last 17 years, I don't want to miss the opportunity to say thank you to everyone for accepting me as how and who I am," Kroos wrote on social media.
"Thanks to all my fans around the world for your unconditional support. Thanks to all my clubs and coaches for believing in me. Thanks to all my team-mates for making me feel welcome anytime.
"Thanks to my friends for always being honest with me no matter how successful I became. Thanks to my agents who became friends. Thanks to my parents for the best possible preparation to realise my dream.
"Thanks to my brother for always being my number one fan. Thanks to my kids for being my biggest motivation to bring the best out of me – nothing better to see your kids being proud of daddy.
"Thanks to my beautiful wife for being you. Never change. This success wouldn't have been possible without you. It's ours!
"And last but not least: Thank you football! You beautiful game. And... you're welcome! Over and out."
Kroos spent the last ten years of his career with Real Madrid, winning among others five UEFA Champions League titles and four La Liga crowns.
He started his career with Bayern Munich, where he won three Bundesliga titles and the Champions League in 2013.
Kroos also won the 2014 World Cup with Germany.
