Thomas Mueller Retires: An End to a Stellar International Career

Thomas Mueller, the 34-year-old Bayern Munich forward, has announced his retirement from international football after their European Championship exit. With 131 caps and 45 goals, Mueller helped Germany win the 2014 World Cup and was honored with the Golden Boot and Young Player Award in the 2010 World Cup.

Thomas Mueller, the celebrated Bayern Munich forward, has officially retired from international football following Germany's exit from the European Championship. The 34-year-old participated in his eighth and final tournament during Germany's 2-1 quarter-final loss to Spain on July 5, where he came on as a substitute in the 80th minute.

Mueller boasts 131 caps and 45 goals for the national team, significantly contributing to Germany's 2014 World Cup victory. He was also awarded the Golden Boot and Young Player Award in the 2010 World Cup, where Germany finished third. 'It always made me very proud to play for my country. We celebrated together and sometimes shed a tear together,' Mueller said in a social media farewell video.

Reflecting on his career, Mueller expressed gratitude to fans and teammates. 'When I had the privilege of making my first international appearance, I would never have dreamed of all this,' he said. German national team chief Rudi Voeller praised Mueller's invaluable contributions, stating, 'Nobody is like Thomas Mueller. His value for German football cannot be overestimated.'

(With inputs from agencies.)