Real Madrid legend Toni Kroos spoke to Real Madrid TV after receiving the Knight’s Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany at the Bernabéu on Thursday. He was asked about what receiving it meant for him, to which he said: “I’m very happy. I’ve received several awards in my career, but this is the highest honour you can receive in Germany. And if it’s also for the Foundation, where we help sick children and their families, this award means a great deal.”
Kroos on the surprise
“I knew Florentino Pérez and the German president would be there, but I didn’t know my former teammates would be there. Not even Antonio (Rüdiger), who is a very good friend, told me. It was a surprise, and it makes me happy to know that I had good teammates and good people.”
Kroos on receiving it at the Bernabéu
“When they told me the event was going to be at the Bernabéu, I was very happy, because it seems like the perfect place to receive this Order. It has been my home for 10 years, and I feel it will always be my home. I always enjoy being in this stadium.”
Kroos on receiving the farewell at the Bernabéu
“The whole day was spectacular. Weeks before, I’d already said I wanted a farewell at the
Bernabéu, when we had nothing left to play for, and that we should finally be champions, so I could enjoy it. That’s exactly what happened, and from the moment I left home until I returned, I enjoyed it. What they prepared for me, the affection of the fans, my teammates, the president, the coach… It was special.”
Florentino Perez’s speech for Toni Kroos
“It is a great honor to welcome to our stadium the President of the Federal Republic of Germany and the entire delegation from this great country, so dear to us all. Dear President, I would like to express our gratitude for choosing the Bernabéu to honour one of the greatest legends of our club, our beloved Toni Kroos.
For us, he is a role model for the values that Real Madrid represents worldwide. In the 10 seasons he has worn our shirt, he has been an example of hard work, sacrifice, perseverance, humility, respect, and solidarity. And he has also contributed to something very important: he has helped us strengthen the bond between our two countries, Germany and Spain.
We are all especially moved by what this decoration represents, which 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 great gentleman of sport. Those of us who have enjoyed his understanding of football know that we have had the privilege of witnessing one of the best players of all time.
Toni Kroos retired at the peak of his career, as a European champion with Real Madrid, in a legendary stadium like Wembley, and representing the German national team in the last European Championship. Dear Toni, we are very proud of you and that you are receiving this recognition from your country in this stadium where you have been so happy. Here you have given us your unforgettable football.
You have won the hearts of everyone who has seen you play, and I want you to know that as president of Real Madrid, it has been an honor to have you with us during one of the most successful periods in our history. Today you receive the recognition of your country, and you also take with you forever our affection 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, together with your wife Jessica, 10 years ago. We are all grateful for the work of this Foundation with children who are seriously ill. Dear Toni, congratulations on this important award, and you know that Real Madrid is and always will be your home.”
