World Cup winner Sami Khedira received the Baden-Württemberg Order of Merit from Winfried Kretschmann on Sunday. Khedira was recognised for his co-operation and fair play both on and off the pitch, as well as for his charitable work.

The award is given to those that have done honourable work within Baden-Württemberg. “Background and skin colour don’t play a role on the football pitched – ability and teamwork are important. Khedira is a great example of this,” said Kretschmann in Stuttgart.

Two years ago Khedira created a foundation aimed at supporting children and families from problematic background. Additionally, he is an ambassador for the “Kindermedienland” initiative, a project aimed at raising media awareness within the region.