Germany’s World Cup Winner Jerome Boateng Retires from Football at 37

Former Germany international Jerome Boateng, a 2014 World Cup winner, officially announced his retirement from football on Friday.

The 37-year-old defender shared a one-minute farewell video on Instagram featuring career highlights, reflecting on his journey across club and international football.

“I played for a long time, for big clubs, for my country. I learned, won, lost, and grew through it all,” Boateng said.

“Football has given me a lot, now it’s time to move on. Not because I have to, but because I’m ready. I’m grateful to the teams, the fans, the people who supported me. And above all, my family, my children. They’ve always been there for me.”

Boateng earned 76 caps for Germany, scoring once, and was part of the squad that lifted the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.

At club level, he enjoyed his most successful years with Bayern Munich, winning two UEFA Champions League titles (2013 and 2020) and nine Bundesliga crowns.

Born in Berlin, Boateng rose through Hertha Berlin’s youth academy alongside his half-brother Kevin-Prince. His career included spells at Hamburg and Manchester City before joining Bayern, where he established himself as one of Europe’s top defenders.

Since leaving Bayern in 2021, Boateng played for Lyon in France, Salernitana in Italy, and LASK in Austria, terminating his contract with the latter in mid-August.

Late in his career, Boateng faced legal troubles linked to domestic violence allegations from his ex-wife. Following a review process, he received a warning and a suspended fine.

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