Germany captain Philipp Lahm retires from internationals

World Cup-winning captain Philipp Lahm has retired from playing for Germany.

The 30-year-old Lahm informed German Football Federation president Wolfgang Niersbach of his decision in a telephone call on Friday.

Lahm played 113 games for Germany since his debut in a 2-1 victory over Croatia in February 2004.

“I could tell very early in the conversation that it was futile to try to talk him out of his decision,” Niersbach said. “He wasn’t only an outstanding player in 10 years with the national team, but always an absolute role model.

Lahm said he decided over the course of the past season to retire after the World Cup, and that he informed Germany coach Joachim Loew on Monday.

“I am happy and thankful that my national team career ended with the World Cup win in Brazil,” Lahm said.

“I have been on holiday for three days and have peace and time to come to terms with the end of my national team career. Many thanks for a wonderful time.”

Lahm told Sport Bild magazine he was leaving the team in “full harmony”.