Bayern were confirmed German champions after their 0-0 draw with VfL Wolfsburg.

The result meant they completed the domestic double for the third time in four seasons.

They won the German Cup a fortnight ago.

The draw stretched their lead over closest rivals Werder Bremen to 10 points with three games remaining.

With 31 games played, Bayern lead with 67 points, followed by Werder on 57, after their 2-0 win over Energie Cottbus on Saturday.

Schalke 04 are two points further back in the third and final Champions League place, after the 1-1 draw at home to Hanover 96.

It was Bayern's 20th title win since the Bundesliga era began in 1963. They had also won in 1932.

They played poorly against Wolfsburg, who missed the chance to keep them waiting for the title when striker Grafite burst through on goal in the final minute only to shoot wide.

Said a delighted Hitzfeld, who is leaving at the end of the season to coach the Swiss national side: 'It's been a unique season, because expectations were so high.

'The club spent heavily so the pressure was immense, but winning the league makes it all worthwhile.''

Bayern spent 69 million euros (S$145 million) last summer to recruit a league-winning side.

After the bitter disappointment of last Thursday's Uefa Cup exit in St Petersburg, when they were hammered 0-4, they picked up the precious point they needed in Wolfsburg despite missing several first-choice players.

'It's been a fantastic season,' said chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge. 'The team have achieved great things, and we're very satisfied.'

AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE, ASSOCIATED PRESS