BERLIN — Germany's president honoured national coach Joachim Loew and his team on Tuesday for their strong showing at the World Cup in South Africa.
President Christian Wulff handed Loew the country's highest honour — the Federal Order of Merit — at a ceremony at the Bellevue palace in Berlin.
With Chancellor Angela Merkel standing beside him, he also gave Loew's players the Silver Laurel Leaf, Germany's highest recognition for sporting achievement.
Wulff praised Loew as "an exemplary football coach, a model leadership personality, an internationally recognized football expert and a deeply likeable sportsman."
Germany finished third at the World Cup and was praised for its attractive play.
"The team convinced with its elegance, effortlessness, team spirit and playfulness, and can be an example for others," Wulff said.
Referring to the squad's multiethnic makeup, he added that "this team is a mirror of our country's actual society."
World Cup captain Philipp Lahm said the award was a "great incentive" for the future.
"We want finally to bring a title to Germany, of course in the near future," said Lahm.
Germany's last tournament win was the 1996 European Championship.
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