Today, Toni Kroos was awarded the Knight's Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany, with Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez delivering a speech to congratulate the player.
At the ceremony staged in the Bernabéu's presidential box, Kroos was bestowed with the prestigious award by German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier himself, in recognition of the Real Madrid legend and global football icon. Among the attendees were Real Madrid Honorary President José Martínez Pirri, Director of Institutional Relations Emilio Butragueño, head coach Xabi Alonso, players Valverde, Rüdiger, Däbritz and Frohms, as well as club legends Roberto Carlos, Arbeloa and Solari.
Club president Florentino Pérez opened his speech: “It is a real honour to welcome the President of the Federal Republic of Germany and the whole delegation from this great country, which is very dear to all of us, to our home. I would like to express our gratitude to you, Mr President, for choosing the Bernabéu to honour one of our club's greatest legends, our beloved Toni Kroos.”
“For us, he is a symbol of the values that Real Madrid represents around the world. In the 10 seasons he has worn our shirt, he has been an example of hard work, sacrifice, overcoming adversity, humility, respect and solidarity. He has also contributed to something very important. He has helped us to enhance the bond between our two countries: Germany and Spain.”
A great gentleman of sport
“We are all particularly moved by the significance of the award he is receiving today from the President of his country. The Knight's Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany is being awarded today to a true gentleman of sport. Those of us who have enjoyed his footballing approach know that we have had the privilege of watching one of the greatest players of all time.”
“Toni Kroos retired at the peak of his career, having won the European Cup with Real Madrid at the legendary Wembley Stadium and represented Germany at the most recent European Championship.”
Pride and admiration
“Toni, we are very proud of you and that you have received this recognition from your country at this stadium where you have been so happy. Here, you have given us unforgettable football. You have won the hearts of all of us who have seen you play, and I want you to know that as club president of Real Madrid, it has been an honour to have you with us during one of the most successful periods in our history.”
“Today, you receive recognition from your country, and you will always have our love and admiration. Thank you for everything you have given to Real Madrid. And thank you also for your charitable work with the foundation you created with your wife Jessica, ten years ago. We are all grateful for the work this foundation undertakes with seriously ill children. Dear Toni, congratulations on this important award, and know that Real Madrid is and always will be your home.”
President Steinmeier said: “We pay tribute to a legend and a person who feels at home at the Bernabéu”“This is the perfect place to pay tribute to one of football's greats, in a stadium that has instilled fear in so many opponents. This stadium is a temple to how football brings different people together across borders. It is the place where we pay tribute to a legend and a person who feels at home at the Bernabéu.”
“For any football fan, entering this stadium is already an experience. For a player, stepping onto this pitch, saying goodbye to a fabulous career here, and feeling so much affection and respect must be even more profound. The images of his farewell moved me deeply, as they did millions of people in Germany and Spain.”
Legend
“Kroos is a living legend, because of his extraordinary sporting achievements. He forged a glorious 10-year era for Real Madrid, winning numerous trophies. We pay tribute to one of the most important German athletes of all time. He is a legend not only for his sporting achievements but also for his sensible attitude on the pitch, which has made him a role model. As a midfielder, he was the heart of his team and is a creator of German-Spanish friendship.”
“His foundation enables children with cancer to receive therapies and treatments that other institutions do not cover sufficiently or do not fund at all. Just as he took on responsibility for his team on the pitch, today he does so for society and for the friendship between Germany and Spain. I am delighted to award him the Knight's Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany.”
Kroos said: “It is special to receive this distinction”
“I have found out who has been awarded this honour before, and receiving it is something very special, as is the place where it will be presented to me. Sporting success is not the only reason for receiving it, but if there is one place where it should be presented, it is this stadium, which has been my home for the last 10 years. It is a special feeling to walk in here, where I have experienced my best moments as a footballer.”
“It is a responsibility to pass on values, and I have been doing so for a long time. My Foundation has been around for 10 years now and will continue to exist. This award is largely due to the work of my Foundation, and I advise other footballers that it is always possible to increase your commitment to society.”
Solidarity
“We have the opportunity to help those who are less fortunate wherever possible. I will share this award with the team that so passionately works directly with the families we help. Success depends on the whole team, as I have learned in football. My wife is highly committed to these families. I accept this award on behalf of my team and am delighted to be among those who have received it. It motivates me to continue working.”
