Hummels revels in ‘perfect’ farewell as co-star left ‘a little sad’
TL;DR
Borussia Dortmund legend Mats Hummels enjoyed an emotional and perfect farewell in his final pre-season friendly against Juventus, where the defender captained the team briefly before being substituted to thunderous applause.
Although Dortmund lost 2-1, the occasion was marked by heartfelt tributes and personal reflections by Hummels and teammates. This comprehensive article delves into the details of his farewell match, the sentiments expressed, and what this moment means for fans and football lovers alike.
A Legendary Farewell: Hummels’ Last Match for Borussia Dortmund
On August 10, 2025, at the iconic Signal Iduna Park, Mats Hummels bid farewell to professional football in an atmosphere thick with emotion and respect. This was not just any match; it was a ceremonious final bow for the 36-year-old central defender who has become synonymous with Borussia Dortmund’s resilient spirit and success over more than a decade.
Starting the pre-season friendly against Juventus, Hummels wore the captain’s armband and showcased his trademark composure and ball-playing skills before being respectfully substituted in the 18th minute. The standing ovation from fans and teammates alike honored his extraordinary contributions to the club and the sport.
Match Highlights and Emotional Moments
Despite the celebratory atmosphere, the game itself was tightly contested. Juventus took the lead with two goals by Andrea Cambiaso (16′, 53′) while Borussia Dortmund’s Maximilian Beier pulled one back late in the 89th minute. Though the 2-1 scoreline ended in defeat for Dortmund, the night belonged to Hummels, whose leadership and legacy were the focal point.
Reflecting on the match, Hummels expressed, “I couldn’t have imagined it any better. I was more nervous than many other games, but it was incredibly fun to play in front of these fantastic fans once more.” He candidly shared the physical challenge he felt, noting that warming up was more strenuous than recent weeks and even joked about not being allowed to come off after 15 minutes, highlighting his professional respect for the game despite nearing retirement.
Tributes and Legacy Recognitions
Borussia Dortmund’s management and fans made sure Hummels’ farewell was unforgettable. Prior to kickoff, BVB officials including Chairman Hans-Joachim Watzke and Honorary President Dr. Reinhard Rauball, publicly lauded him as one of the club’s greatest ever players. A special jersey in his honor was made available at the club’s fan shop, reflecting his profound impact on the club’s identity.
During half-time, a new legend motif commemorating Hummels was unveiled at Signal Iduna Park, immortalizing his No. 15 jersey alongside other club greats. This public recognition cements Hummels’ place in Dortmund’s history and will allow fans to celebrate him for generations to come.
Personal Reflections and Teammates’ Reactions
Hummels’ farewell stirred deep emotions across the team. Some teammates confessed feeling “a little sad” about losing a leader who was also a close friend and mentor. Hummels himself addressed the crowd with heartfelt words, reflecting on the journey: “I came here as a 19-year-old and grew up with you. I couldn’t have imagined anything better than growing up with this club and in this city.” His humility and connection with the fans conveyed why he remains beloved on and off the pitch.
Teammates, both past and present, shared their admiration and gratitude publicly, emphasizing not only Hummels’ football excellence—including Bundesliga titles and a 2014 World Cup win—but also his character and leadership.
Key Takeaways from Mats Hummels’ Farewell
- Mats Hummels retired after 18 years of professional football highlighted by major trophies and leadership roles.
- His farewell match at Signal Iduna Park was a testament to his legendary status in Borussia Dortmund’s history.
- The game, despite a 2-1 defeat to Juventus, provided a perfect emotional backdrop for saying goodbye.
- Fans and club officials honored Hummels with special tributes including commemorative jerseys and stadium motifs.
- Teammates expressed heartfelt sadness at his retirement but celebrated his immense contribution to the team and German football.
Plan Your Visit to Signal Iduna Park
If you want to witness Borussia Dortmund’s magic or catch another thrilling game, here’s what you need to know:
Ticket Prices
Tickets for Borussia Dortmund home matches typically start from €25 for general seating, with premium seats costing up to €85 depending on the match importance and location within the stadium.
Stadium and Match Hours
Signal Iduna Park gates generally open 2 hours before match kick-off, with matches typically starting between 1:30 PM and 8:30 PM depending on the fixture.
Authentic Fan Reviews
Fans praise the electrifying atmosphere, passionate supporters, and excellent facilities at Signal Iduna Park. Many highlight the unique experience of the ‘Yellow Wall’, one of the largest terraces in European football, as unforgettable.
Find Signal Iduna Park Here:
Frequently Asked Questions About Mats Hummels’ Farewell
Who is Mats Hummels and why is his farewell significant?
Mats Hummels is a renowned German central defender known for his time at Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich, with achievements including Bundesliga titles and the 2014 World Cup. His farewell marks the end of a storied career for one of Dortmund’s greatest players.
What happened during Hummels’ farewell match?
Hummels started the friendly between Borussia Dortmund and Juventus, captained the team briefly, and was substituted after 18 minutes to a standing ovation. The match ended 2-1 in favor of Juventus but was mainly a celebration of Hummels’ career.
How has Borussia Dortmund honored Mats Hummels?
The club held special tributes including the sale of commemorative jerseys, a legend motif unveiled in the stadium, and emotional public speeches by club officials and fans recognizing his legacy.
Is Mats Hummels involved with football after retirement?
As of his retirement announcement in summer 2025, Hummels has not publicly confirmed future plans but remains highly respected and connected to Borussia Dortmund and the football community.
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