Jerome Boateng has retired from professional football aged 37.The World Cup-winning defender had been a free agent after leaving Austrian side LASK last month.GettyBoateng has announced his retirement from professional football aged 37[/caption]GettyThe World Cup winner’s decision comes a month after LASK terminated his contract[/caption]He departed the club less than two weeks into the new domestic season after his contract was terminated.Boateng had joined LASK last summer before making 14 appearances during an injury-hit campaign.His fitness woes included a five-month lay-off due to groin surgery between October 2024 and March of this year.Following his release, LASK sporting director Dino Buric said: “He has played an important role, especially for our young players, by providing them with excellent support and encouragement.”Meanwhile, Boateng had suggested his playing career was not over at the time by stating: “I would like to thank LASK for their trust and the time we spent together here in Linz.“It was an enriching experience to work in a new environment once again. Now the time is right for me to open a new chapter.“I will soon announce what new challenges — both sporting and personal — await me in the future.”However, he has now opted to hang up his boots just a month later.The former Germany international confirmed his decision in a video shared to Instagram on Friday.In the clip, he explained: “I’ve played for a long time, for big clubs, for my country. I’ve learned, won and lost. Football has given me a lot.instagram / @jeromeboatengBoateng confirmed his decision to retire in a video message shared to social media[/caption]“Now, it’s time to move on. Not because I have to but because I’m ready.“I am grateful for everything. For my teams, the fans and the people who supported me.“Above all, my family and children who were always there for me. Family, friends, fans, it’s time.”Boateng began his career with Hertha Berlin, progressing through the club’s academy before joining Hamburg aged 18.He later moved to the Premier League, the 2010/11 season with Manchester City.However, the centre-back made just 24 appearances for City before returning to Germany and signing for Bayern Munich.The former Bayern defender won 25 trophies with the club including two Champions LeaguesGettyJerome Boateng's career statistics2007: Hertha Berlin – 11 apps2007-10: Hamburg – two goals in 113 apps2010-11: Manchester City – 24 appearances2011-21: Bayern Munich – 10 goals in 363 appearances2011-23: Lyon – 35 appearances2023-24: Salernitana – seven appearances2024-25: LASK – 14 appearances2009-18: Germany – one goal in 76 capsHonours: World Cup, 2x Champions League, 9x Bundesliga, 2x UEFA Super Cup, 5x DFB Pokal, 2x Club World Cup, FA Cup, 5x German Super CupBoateng went on to spend a decade with the club, making 363 appearances and winning 25 trophies.Those honours included two Champions Leagues and nine Bundesliga titles.After leaving Bayern in 2021, he had spells with Lyon, Salernitana and LASK across the last four years.Boateng also scored once in 76 caps for Germany during his playing career and started their 2014 World Cup final victory over Argentina.