Toni Kroos: Order of Merit for the local hero from Greifswald!

Toni Kroos: Order of Merit for the local hero from Greifswald!

On July 18, 2025 there will be a special event in the Greifswalder Volksstadion. Greifswald-born Toni Kroos, who made his name as one of the most successful German footballers, will receive the Order of Merit of the State of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. This award was recently confirmed by the state government under the leadership of Prime Minister Manuela Schwesig (SPD), and it not only honors the former world champion's sporting achievements, but also his remarkable social commitment.

The event promises to be particularly solemn. In addition to many high-ranking guests, numerous young footballers from the region will also be present to attend the ceremony. Schwesig described Kroos as an excellent ambassador for Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and acknowledged his achievements not only on the pitch but also off it. “He is a person with outstanding social commitment,” said the Prime Minister, pointing to the support that Kroos’ foundation provides for institutions such as the Leuchtturm children’s and youth hospice service in the region and numerous families in Germany.

Toni Kroos' sporting career

The 34-year-old can look back on an impressive career. Toni Kroos has won a total of six Champions League titles and became world champion with the German national team in 2014. He began his football career in the youth ranks of Hansa Rostock and took him via Bayer 04 Leverkusen and FC Bayern Munich to Real Madrid, where he celebrated the majority of his successes. He ended his active career after the quarter-final exit at the home European Championships in 2024.

What Kroos has achieved off the pitch may be somewhat overshadowed by these top sporting achievements. “It is a great honor for me to receive this medal,” said Kroos, expressing his joy about the award, which, in his opinion, is not only based on sporting successes. He will be named Germany's Footballer of the Year 2023 by German sports journalists, underlining his status as one of the best in the industry.

A charitable initiative

The awarding of the Order of Merit takes place in Kroos' hometown, honoring the connection between the athlete and his region. The Prime Minister emphasizes how important such role models are for the upcoming generation of footballers. Kroos' commitment to social causes shows that financial support and humanitarian aid play a role in his career and life.

July 18, 2025 will be a very special day for Toni Kroos, his family and his fellow citizens in Greifswald, which will highlight the successes of one of Germany's most important footballers and at the same time emphasize the importance of social action. Let's be surprised at what next steps Kroos is planning after his active career, because one thing is certain: there is still a lot to do!

You can find more on this topic in the articles from Northern Courier, Hansa News and t online.