Toni Kroos: From World Champion to Football Legend and Philanthropist

Toni Kroos retires as a football legend with six Champions League titles and a World Cup, now focusing on philanthropy and football development.

    Key details

  • • Toni Kroos won 6 Champions League titles, 1 with Bayern Munich and 5 with Real Madrid.
  • • He was an essential part of Germany's 2014 World Cup-winning team.
  • • Kroos retired by choice after winning a total of 34 major titles.
  • • Post-retirement, he founded a football academy and engages in charitable work and football media.
  • • Kroos promised Alexander Zverev to change his WhatsApp profile if Zverev won a Grand Slam, which he did.

Toni Kroos, one of football's most accomplished midfielders, has retired leaving behind a remarkable legacy. Over his career, Kroos won an unprecedented six Champions League titles—one with FC Bayern Munich and five with Real Madrid—and was a pivotal figure in Germany's 2014 World Cup victory. His career tally boasts 34 major titles, underlining his dominance in European and international football.

Kroos's journey to football stardom was shaped by pivotal moments, including a defining phone call from coach Carlo Ancelotti during the 2014 World Cup. His exceptional passing skills and playmaking ability cemented his reputation as a 'silent dominator' on the pitch. Despite lucrative interest from other clubs, contract disputes with Bayern Munich led him to Real Madrid, where he became a cornerstone of their success.

He retired on his own terms, emphasizing control over his career decisions. Post-retirement, Kroos continues to impact the sport through his football academy, charitable foundation, media ventures like a podcast, and involvement in launching a new football league. This ongoing engagement underscores his lasting contribution to football beyond his playing days.

In addition to sporting achievements, a personal anecdote highlights his connection with tennis star Alexander Zverev. Kroos promised to change his WhatsApp profile if Zverev won a Grand Slam, which he fulfilled following Zverev's triumph at the 2024 French Open.

Kroos's career is celebrated both for his on-field excellence and his commitment to nurturing the future of football, securing his place as a true legend of the game.

This article was translated and synthesized from German sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.

Source comparison

The key details of this story are consistent across the source articles

The top news stories in Germany

Delivered straight to your inbox each morning.