Rüdiger was included in Germany's final 23-man squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup on 4 June 2018.[38] On 23 June, he was picked up for the second group stage match against Sweden as first choice centre-back Mats Hummels suffered an injury, the game ended 2–1 win for Germany.[39][40] Four days later, he did not play the last group stage match and his side were knocked out by South Korea after a 2–0 defeat.[41] On 19 May 2021, Rüdiger was selected to the squad for the UEFA Euro 2020.[42] He played every minute in the tournament for Germany as they were eliminated by England in the round of 16.[43]