His words, "At 36, I look back at a long and wonderful time in professional football. It was a privilege to work together with first-rate coaches and fantastic teammates."
"I look forward to a new chapter in my life," Ballack said, and thanked his family "and all the great people" for their support during his career.
According to top football sources, his decision to hand the boots came after he failed to reach an agreement with the Western Sydney Wanderers about a move to the Australian A-League.
I will miss him…I wish him luck as he turn a new page of life.
Ballack is one of the best Germany Midfielder. We will miss his long shoot and leadership in the field. Good bye Ballack, thanks for great performance in national team and club