At 64, Lothar Matthäus remains a major figure in German football. But in Paris, during the Ballon d'Or 2025 ceremony, its appearance caused a real media buzz, both in Germany and elsewhere.
Matthäus and his partner cause an uproar
The scandal comes from the fact that the former 1990 Golden Ball appeared on the arm of Theresa Sommer, a young woman of 26 years. The 38 -year gap between the two immediately sparked ironic comments, some mocking the situation with comparisons in Leonardo DiCaprio. On the forums, others recalled that Matthäus had completed his career the year when his partner was born.
The general press has adopted a measured tone: Express
highlighted his audacity, while Focus
recalled the curiosity aroused by the couple. The People press, on the other hand, was unleashed.
Bild And Bun have underlined the age difference and retraced the agitated sentimental past of the 1990 world champion, known for his successive marriages with much younger women.
A character accustomed to controversies
In reality, Matthäus is not at his first media episode. His previous unions have already fed tabloids and mockery, to the point that in Germany, his public image is now associated with his sentimental escapades as much as his immense sports career. The interested party also assumes his choice, recalling in an interview that he has “Always been with young people”.
More than a shock, this appearance caused a mixture of fun and resignation. The reactions oscillate between light criticism and amused indifference, proof that public opinion has accustomed to the personal choices of Matthäus. Finally, the controversy says less about him than on the way in which a balloon legend is scrutinized even in his private life.
