News Sports Soccer Bastian Schweinsteiger, former World Cup winner and Bayern Munich star, announces retirement from football

Bastian Schweinsteiger, former World Cup winner and Bayern Munich star, announces retirement from football

The 35-year-old midfielder made 121 appearances for Germany from 2004-16, and was in the team that won the World Cup in 2014.

Chicago Fire's Bastian Schweinsteiger, right, passes the ball in front of Orlando City's Kamal Mille Image Source : APChicago Fire's Bastian Schweinsteiger, right, passes the ball in front of Orlando City's Kamal Miller (27) during the first half of an MLS soccer match, Sunday

Former Germany captain Bastian Schweinsteiger says he is retiring from soccer, ending an 18-year professional career.

The 35-year-old midfielder made 121 appearances for Germany from 2004-16, and was in the team that won the World Cup in 2014.

Schweinsteiger played for Bayern Munich, Manchester United and, since 2017, Chicago Fire in his club career. He won the Champions League with Bayern in 2013.

Schweinsteiger announced his retirement over Twitter on Tuesday, writing: "Saying goodbye as an active player makes me feel a little nostalgic but I am looking forward to the exciting challenges that await me soon."

He is married to former tennis player Ana Ivanovic.