Daijiworld Media Network - Munich
Munich, May 7: Niklas Süle has announced that he will retire from professional football at the end of the current season, bringing an unexpected end to a successful career at the age of 30.
The former Germany international confirmed his decision during an appearance on the Spielmacher podcast, revealing that a recent injury scare played a major role in convincing him to step away from the game once his contract with Borussia Dortmund expires.
Süle said he feared he had suffered a third anterior cruciate ligament injury after hurting his knee during a match against TSG Hoffenheim in April. Recalling the emotional moment, he explained that medical staff initially suspected a serious ligament tear, leaving him devastated.
The defender revealed that he broke down emotionally in the dressing room, believing his career could again be interrupted by a major knee injury. However, after MRI scans later confirmed the injury was not a cruciate ligament tear, he realised it was the right time to retire from football.
Süle said the incident made him reflect deeply on his future and his desire to spend more time with his family, travel, and live independently away from the physical and mental demands of professional sport.
Over the course of his career, Süle established himself as one of Germany’s leading defenders. He made 299 appearances in the Bundesliga while playing for Hoffenheim, FC Bayern Munich, and Borussia Dortmund.
During his time at Bayern Munich, he won five Bundesliga titles and was part of the club’s historic treble-winning squad in 2020, which included triumphs in the Bundesliga, German Cup, and UEFA Champions League.
Despite his achievements, recurring injuries significantly affected his career. Süle suffered two previous ACL injuries and faced ongoing fitness struggles after making his senior debut at just 17 years old.
On the international stage, Süle represented Germany 49 times, featuring in two FIFA World Cups and helping the national team win the FIFA Confederations Cup in 2017.