After nearly two decades at the top of world football, Mats Hummels has officially announced that he will retire from professional soccer at the end of the current season. The 36-year-old German defender, currently with AS Roma, made the heartfelt revelation in a video shared on social media platform X on Friday.
“I’m struggling with my emotions right now,” Hummels said. “Now comes the moment that no footballer can avoid. After 18 years and so many things that football has given me, I’m ending my career this summer.”
A Decorated Career Comes to a Close
Hummels' retirement brings the curtain down on a glittering career that includes five Bundesliga titles, a 2014 FIFA World Cup triumph, and multiple domestic trophies. Renowned for his composure, intelligence, and leadership on the pitch, Hummels is widely regarded as one of Germany’s finest defenders of his generation.
He spent the bulk of his career with Borussia Dortmund, where he played in two separate stints (2008–2016 and 2019–2023), winning two Bundesliga titles, two DFB-Pokal trophies, and reaching two UEFA Champions League finals — one of them in 2013 against Bayern Munich. Between those spells, Hummels starred for Bayern, collecting three league titles and further bolstering his legacy.
A Sudden Twist at Roma
Hummels signed for Roma as a free agent in September, on a one-year deal with an option for extension. His time in Italy, however, has been marred by instability. After arriving less than fully fit, Roma underwent a series of coaching changes. Daniele De Rossi was dismissed just weeks after Hummels' arrival, and under Ivan Juric, the German saw little action. It wasn’t until Claudio Ranieri, Roma’s third coach of the season, took over that Hummels was reinstated into the starting lineup.
Despite these challenges, Hummels has managed to leave his mark in Serie A, bringing his experience and calm presence to Roma’s defense during a turbulent campaign.
National Team and Legacy
On the international stage, Hummels earned 76 caps for Germany, with the highlight being his integral role in the team’s World Cup victory in 2014. Known for his defensive solidity and knack for stepping up in big moments, he will be remembered for crucial performances — including his match-winning goal against France in the 2014 quarterfinal.
His omission from Germany’s squad for the upcoming European Championship on home soil raised eyebrows, particularly after his strong finish to the previous season.
A Farewell to a Football Icon
As Hummels prepares to walk away from the sport that defined his life, tributes are already pouring in from across the football world. Clubs, teammates, and fans are celebrating a player who combined class and commitment throughout a distinguished career.
Though his final season may not have followed a perfect script, Mats Hummels retires as a champion, a leader, and a true icon of German football — leaving behind a legacy that will inspire future generations.
His final games with Roma will undoubtedly be emotional, as fans and teammates alike say goodbye to one of the game’s great defenders.