M. Ballack: 'Words cannot describe the pain of losing a son'

2026-03-06 15:11 © IMAGO/Michael Weber

Legendary Germany national team player, Munich's Bayern, and London’s Chelsea club midfielder Michael Ballack spoke publicly for the first time about the loss of his son.

His son Emilio Ballack died in 2021 in Portugal while riding an ATV. He was just eighteen years old at the time.

"It is difficult because you cannot imagine or describe it in words. Everyone deals with it in their own way.

It is very hard for me to talk about it. I would like to say more, but it is just too emotional for me.”

"You try to live everyday life, do things that motivate you: like work, being with family, and taking care of the other two sons.

As much as possible, I managed to cope with it. We succeeded. I am grateful for that.”

Michael Ballack was a four-time German champion during his career.

He also played 98 matches for his national team over eleven years.