German Captain Michael Ballack has been ruled out of the World Cup to be held at South Africa this June. This has been informed by sources at Munich. With this, Germany's World Cup hopes have suffered a severe blow. Ballack will miss the World Cup for a serious ankle injury.

This is going to be a personal setback for 33-year-old Ballack as well. He was all set to play and perform on the sport's biggest stage. This was going to be his third World Cup participation. It does not seem he can come back for the next Word Cup after four years. Michael Ballack is playing for Chelsea and he is one of the best midfielder in recent time.

He was injured in the first half of FA Cup final against Portsmouth. However his team has registered a victory over there. The injured ankle was scanned and it was badly swollen. Ballack broke off in the post match interview after getting this news. He was truly disappointed not to be a part of this grand event.