Germany defender Rudiger announces international retirement

Germany defender Antonio Rudiger on Tuesday announced his international retirement, two months after last playing for Germany at the 2026 World Cup.

The 33-year-old made 86 appearances for the four-time world champions.

"After some time reflecting, the moment has come for me to end my national team career and clear the way for the young generation," Rudiger said in a social media post.

Rudiger made his debut in 2014, a month before Germany won the World Cup, but was not included in the squad which travelled to Brazil.

The centre-back said he wanted to focus on his club side Real Madrid, where he is under contract until 2027.

-AJM