Toni Kroos becomes a legend: honored in Greifswald as Krooswald

Toni Kroos becomes a legend: honored in Greifswald as Krooswald

The major event of the year unfolded in the picturesque Hanseatic city of Greifswald on July 17, 2025. The celebrated football star Toni Kroos was honored in his hometown with the Order of Merit of the State of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Prime Minister Manuela Schwesig presented this award in the Volksstadion, a place that is of particular importance for Kroos' sporting career. Around 500 young footballers were looking forward to this day and saw first-hand how their idols were being honored.

Kroos, who has regularly caused a stir on the pitch in recent years, has also made a name for himself off the pitch. With his foundation, he primarily supports the Leuchtturm outpatient children's and youth hospice service in Greifswald and the university children's clinic. Schwesig particularly emphasized this social commitment during the honor and described Kroos as one of the most successful German footballers and a model ambassador for Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. “Many people in our country were rooting for him during the European Championships,” said the Prime Minister.

From “Krooswald” to the celebration in the stadium

To honor both Kroos and the special occasion, the city has also put up special signs identifying Greifswald as “Krooswald”. The preparations for this were impressive: Hundreds of people formed up in front of the town hall and formed the letters “TONI”, accompanied by the player number eight.

The event itself was an experience package for the whole family: In addition to the award, 168 young dancers from Ostseetanz Greifswald e.V. performed, and the atmosphere in the stadium made hearts beat faster. Over 800 spectators came to celebrate this special day with Toni Kroos. It was a day of honor, joy, but also regret for the 100 fans who were unable to get tickets for the event.

A look into the past

Kroos returned home not only to accept the honor, but also to celebrate his grandfather's 90th birthday. This family connection makes the day even more personal for him. “This award is not only the result of my sporting successes,” emphasized Kroos himself, “it is also a sign of the connection to my homeland.”

During the ceremony, Kroos entered his name in the city's Golden Book, making a lasting impression. City marketing boss Maik Wittenbecher hopes that Kroos will sign another “Krooswald” sign, which will be auctioned off to support further projects. After all these experiences, one thing is clear: Toni Kroos is more than just a footballer - he is a role model for young people and a treasure for his homeland.

For anyone who would like to find out more about Toni Kroos' commitment, the Toni Kroos Foundation offers further information.

The fans can be excited: the European football stage will experience Kroos' talented feet until the 2024 European Championships. Who knows, maybe the star's hometown will experience even more joy soon!

For detailed information about Kroos' award, see LFVM and other exciting reports can also be found at NDR.