Thomas Hitzlsperger

Thomas Hitzlsperger, also known as ‘The Hammer’, has had a long and successful career in professional premier league and international football. With over 300 games under his belt, and 52 caps for the German National Team, Thomas is now an entrepreneur and popular football broadcaster, highlighting his skills both on and off the pitch.

In 2000, Thomas sighed with Aston Villa, where he gained the nick-name “The Hammer” because of his powerful left-foot shot from long-range. Over an impressive thirteen year career in professional football, Thomas played for Aston Villa, VfB Stuttgart, Lazio Rom, VfL Wolfsburg, West Ham United and Everton FC. He also represented Germany’s National Team, and was selected for the 2006 World Cup and Euro 2008. In 2013, Thomas retired from football, and a few months later he came out as gay, becoming the highest-profile male footballer to do so. He now uses his story and experience to support others facing challenges around sexual orientation, gender identity and discrimination.

Since retiring from professional football, Thomas has gone on to have an incredibly successful career in television, becoming a regular and respected voice in football broadcasting. Thomas has featured on Sky, ESPN and ARD and was a key figure in the BBC’s Euro 24 coverage. Thomas is regularly featured on Match of the Day and Amazon Prime’s PL matches. Thomas has also diversified his career and is the owner of the famous London restaurant L’Escargot and co-owner of the Danish football club Aalborg BK. 

Awarded the Order of Mert of the Federal Republic of Germany in recognition of significant efforts in promoting equality and fighting discrimination, Thomas is an experienced and dynamic speaker who’s clients have included business heavyweights like Allianz, AOK and Mercedes Benz. Drawing on years of professional and personal experience, Thomas speaks on a range of topics including diversity, inclusion, the business of sport and entrepreneurship.