Jonathan Tah reveals 'daily ritual' that helps him live 'clearer and happier' as Bayern Munich defender explains how he deals with racism

The Bayern Munich defender gave personal insights in an interview with the club magazine 51, opening up on his experiences with racism in Germany and how he deals with them. Additionally, he also shared that he is a firm believer in journaling, as he writes down his goals every morning in what he described as a "daily ritual."

Tah has been a prominent figure in German football’s fight against racism, both on and off the pitch. Back in March 2025, the former Bayer Leverkusen player admitted that he experienced covert racism in everyday life due to his Ivorian roots, although his mother is German. "Unfortunately, this happens very, very often. It's almost standard," he said in an interview with Sky TV at the time.

Tah mentioned that he writes down his goals for the day every morning and reviews his experiences in writing every evening. He said: “It's not so much about what I've achieved, but much more about experiences I'm grateful for. Some time ago, I realised for myself: the more consciously I live, the greater my clarity – and the happier I am. When I consciously approach life, I understand more: how am I feeling right now? What's on my mind – and why? This daily journal is daily feedback to myself. Because everything is so fast these days: the internet, social media, distractions of all kinds. We're often far too little in touch with ourselves and our values. This daily ritual brings me back to myself, at least for a moment."

Tah also tried to express his personal feelings, especially when it comes to "supposedly taboo topics" such as racism. “Because I don't think we should shy away from supposedly taboo issues," the Germany international said. "We need to talk about it openly, including being open about our feelings. I'm someone who always tries to show and explain my feelings because it's important that others understand how I feel about them. When I met my wife, who is German-Italian, she wasn't aware of a lot of things, such as everyday racism. She couldn't really understand certain things. And it was extremely important that I explained to her how I feel in certain situations and why some things hurt me. She wouldn't have known otherwise. That's why I think it's so important to talk about it openly."

Tah, who joined Bayern as a free agent from Leverkusen, is expected to become a defensive leader at the heart of the defence alongside French centre-back Dayot Upamecano. He will be expected to play a key role in the 2025-26 season, starting with the DFL-Supercup fixture against cup winners Stuttgart on August 16.

Additional reporting by Nino Duit.