German defender Mats Hummels, a 2014 World Cup winner, announced on Friday, April 4th, that he will retire from professional football at the end of the current season. The 36-year-old AS Roma centre-back confirmed his decision via social media, bringing an end to a distinguished playing career spanning nearly two decades.
Hummels, whose contract with Roma expires this summer, began his journey at the Bayern Munich academy before making a high-profile switch to rivals Borussia Dortmund in 2008. He enjoyed successful spells, including returns to both clubs, winning five Bundesliga titles, three German Cups, and six German Super Cups during his time in Germany. He joined Roma last year, making 18 appearances.
A key figure for Germany, Hummels earned 78 caps and was instrumental in their 2014 World Cup triumph in Brazil.5 He also reached two Champions League finals with Borussia Dortmund (2013 and 2024), finishing as runner-up on both occasions.
“I’m struggling with my emotions right now. Now comes the moment no footballer can avoid. After more than 18 years and so many things that football has given me, I’m ending my career this summer,” Hummels wrote. He expressed gratitude for his journey, acknowledging the importance of coaches, teammates, fitness, and timing in his long career. “I know how much this whole journey, this whole path has meant to me. How extraordinary it was to be able to experience that.”
Hummels last represented Germany in November 2023. His retirement marks the end of an era for one of Germany’s most accomplished defenders of his generation.
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