Toni Kroos Reflects on Career, Legacy, and Life After Football at Laureus Awards
Real Madrid legend receives Inspiration Award and speaks candidly about retirement, teamwork, and Fede Valverde
MADRID, SPAIN - APRIL 20: Toni Kroos accepts the Laureus Sporting Inspiration award during the Laureus World Sports Awards Madrid 2026 on April 20, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Pablo Cuadra/Getty Images for Laureus) | Getty Images for Laureus Toni Kroos was honored with the Laureus Inspiration Award on Monday in Madrid, marking another milestone in a career defined by consistency, success, and leadership. Speaking at the ceremony, the former Real Madrid midfielder reflected on his journey, his values, and life after football.
“I see the people inside, all the spectacular athletes who have won so many important things in the world of sport. That means this award is very valuable. Receiving it in Madrid, my home right now, makes it even more special.
” Kroos, who retired on his own terms, made it clear that there has never been any temptation to return to the game. “No, honestly, no (I never thought about returning to football). I never had that thought because I stopped the way I wanted to.
I closed the book. If I were to think about going back, even though it’s too late, I always thought it was impossible to end things better. Everything that came after would be worse.