Toni Kroos in Greifswald: Order of Merit and pure emotions!

Toni Kroos in Greifswald: Order of Merit and pure emotions!

Toni Kroos, the world champion and legendary professional soccer player, will return to his hometown of Greifswald on Friday, July 17, 2025 to be honored with a special honor. In the Volksstadion, where it all began for him, Prime Minister Manuela Schwesig (SPD) will present him with the Order of Merit of the State of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. This is not only an award for his sporting successes, but also for his social commitment through the Toni Kroos Foundation, which supports numerous social projects. Kroos, who at the age of 34 can look back on an impressive career, is very much looking forward to this special day in his hometown, where his journey as a footballer began. He played for Greifswald and Hansa Rostock in his youth before finding success at bigger clubs such as Leverkusen, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid.

Around 800 spectators are expected at the event, including around 500 young players from various Greifswald football clubs who are looking forward to a visit from the Champions League winner. The event will take place under high security precautions and the pride is clearly noticeable. What is particularly impressive is that Kroos' father, Roland Kroos - his first coach - and his family will be in attendance. He expressed his pride at the honor in his son's hometown.

Krooswald – a new name for Greifswald

To properly celebrate the occasion, the city has installed special additional signs with the name “Krooswald” at the town entrances. This makes Toni Kroos' legacy and connection to his homeland visible. City marketing boss Maik Wittenbecher even hopes that Kroos will sign an additional “Krooswald” sign that will be auctioned off for a good cause. This campaign is met with great interest among the population and connects fans with their idol.

Kroos will also be entered in the Golden Book of the city of Greifswald - an honor that only a few people receive. In front of the town hall, hundreds of people will form the letters “TONI” and his number eight to show their support and enthusiasm for the football star. Over 168 young dancers from Ostseetanz Greifswald e.V. will also enrich the event with a performance and ensure a good atmosphere.

An example of social commitment

Particularly noteworthy is the support of the Leuchtturm youth hospice service, which Kroos' foundation supports with its work. Guests of this initiative are also invited to the celebration. This shows that Toni Kroos not only excelled on the pitch, but also has a big heart for social issues off it. Kroos describes this special day as a matter of the heart and is happy to return to the roots of his success.

The enormous interest in Kroos' return is reflected not only in the large number of spectators, but also in a certain degree of disappointment, as only 100 tickets were given out for the awarding of the State Order of Merit. Despite this limitation, the anticipation in Greifswald is huge, and the entire city seems to become “Krooswald” on Friday.