Even a cacophony of fireworks could not distract spectators for long from the oppressive heat, which Klinsmann, the German star called "brutal."

At the world championships in Tokyo last month, Ottey lost the 100 and 200 races, both of which were won by Krabbe, the German star.

Magdalena Montezuma was a German underground star that became his muse until her death in 1985.

Having started with great expectations, the German stars have had a miserable tournament.

He contributed one goal in a 7-0 win (another German star, Fritz Walter, netted three goals in the contest).

A knee tear has sidelined the German star since the Leipzig Open.

"I felt very good tonight and felt no effects from the layoff," the German star said.

Some of the best, such as the East German stars, have stayed home to prepare for Seoul in private.

The German star was retiring, and these hallowed grounds of England were the only fitting place for him to declare it.

The playhouse hosts other appearances by German stars of comedy theatre.