Syndicated reporting provided by Stats Perform and reviewed by the SoccerNews editorial team.
Antonio Rudiger announced his shock retirement from Germany in order to “clear the way for the young generation”.
Rudiger first made his debut for Germany in May 2014 and went on to make 86 appearances for his national team.
He was included in five major tournament squads, most recently being included at the 2026 World Cup, where Germany suffered a shock round-of-32 exit to Paraguay after losing on penalties.
The defender had also been included in the 23-man squad for Euro 2016 but was forced to miss the tournament after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in training.
Now, just over two months after their World Cup exit, Rudiger has opted to hang up his boots for the national team after 12 years.
“After some time spent reflecting, the moment has come for me to end my career with the national team and clear the way for the young generation,” he said in a statement on social media.
“When I first wore the DFB jersey in 2014, I never could have imagined in my wildest dreams that it would ultimately lead to 86 international matches.
“Even though the big title eluded us at the last tournaments, and we had to endure some painful defeats, this time was an incredibly special chapter for me—one that will shape me forever.
Nach einiger Zeit des Nachdenkens ist für mich der Zeitpunkt gekommen, meine Karriere in der Nationalmannschaft zu beenden und den Weg für die junge Generation frei zu machen.
Als ich 2014 das erste Mal das DFB-Trikot getragen habe, hätte ich es mir in meinen Träumen nicht… pic.twitter.com/MniXUgxswy
— Antonio Rüdiger (@ToniRuediger) September 1, 2026
“A huge thank you goes to: My team-mates: For every shared duel and the camaraderie in the locker room and at the team hotel—and above all, for the friendships that will endure far beyond football.
“The entire coaching and support staff: Thank you for the years of trust and the work behind the scenes. A special thanks goes to Jogi Low, Hansi Flick, and Julian Nagelsmann, who accompanied and shaped me on my journey with the DFB. But also to my mentor in the youth national teams, Horst Hrubesch.
“And of course, to you fans: Thank you for your support—especially for the unforgettable atmosphere at our home Euro 2024.
“For me, a new chapter now begins, in which I will fully focus on my club. Thank you for the shared journey.”
Rudiger has made just one appearance for Real Madrid in 2026-27 so far, with this his fifth season at the Bernabeu since joining from Chelsea in 2022.
His international retirement leaves new Germany boss Jurgen Klopp with some issues in defence ahead of the September international break.
While Rudiger has retired, Nico Schlotterback is still out with an ankle injury, leaving him unavailable for the start of their Nations League campaign.
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