Karim Benzema announced his retirement from international football less than 24 hours after France’s dramatic World Cup final loss to Argentina.
Benzema was part of France’s squad for the tournament in Qatar, but he suffered a thigh injury that forced him to withdraw.
On his 35th birthday, he announced his decision. “I made the effort and the mistakes it took to get where I am today, and I’m proud of it!” he wrote. “I’ve finished my story, and ours is coming to an end.”
Benzema made his international debut for Les Bleus in 2007, scoring 37 goals in 97 appearances.
The 35-year-old was barred from playing for France for five years after being found complicit in blackmail in a sex-tape scandal that rocked French football.
France coach Didier Deschamps recalled him in 2021 ahead of the European Championship, where he scored four goals in a Round-of-16 exit.
