Mats Hummels, one of Germany’s most accomplished defenders and a key figure in their 2014 FIFA World Cup triumph, has announced that he will retire from professional football at the end of the current season. The 36-year-old made the announcement through an emotional video shared across his social media platforms.

In the video, Hummels reflected on his 18-year professional career with visible emotion, thanking fans, coaches, teammates, and family. “I’m struggling with my emotions right now,” he admitted, expressing how deeply football has shaped his life.

Club Career Highlights
Hummels is best remembered for his commanding presence at the heart of Borussia Dortmund’s defense. Across two separate spells with the club, he made over 500 appearances and was a cornerstone in Dortmund’s successes. His honors include:

• 2 Bundesliga titles
• 2 DFB-Pokal victories
• 3 DFL-Supercup wins
• Appearances in 2 UEFA Champions League finals
• Between his Dortmund stints, Hummels also spent three seasons with Bayern Munich, where he added three Bundesliga trophies and one DFB-Pokal title to his decorated résumé.

In September 2024, he signed a one-year deal with Italian side AS Roma. While his on-field role was limited, Hummels said he cherished the opportunity to experience Serie A football.

International Legacy
On the international stage, Hummels was a stalwart for Germany, earning 78 caps and scoring six goals. His most iconic moment came in the 2014 World Cup, where he scored the match-winning header against France in the quarter-finals. His calmness, reading of the game, and leadership helped guide Germany to their fourth world title in Brazil.

End of an Era
Hummels’ retirement signals the departure of one of the last remaining players from Germany’s golden generation. Known for his elegance on the ball, tactical intelligence, and professionalism, he will leave behind a legacy etched into both German and European football history.

As he prepares to bring his playing career to a close, tributes are pouring in from around the football world, celebrating a defender who not only achieved greatness but did so with grace, loyalty, and class.