Benzema retires from international football

France football star Karim Benzema has announced his retirement from international football.

Benzema made the announcement public on his 35th birthday, 24 hours after his home country lost to Argentina in the World Cup final via a penalty shoot-out.

The French forward, who won the 2022 Ballon d’Or did not play at the tournament in Qatar due to a thigh injury.

Benzema later declined an invitation from French president Emmanuel Macron to attend the final at Lusail Stadium.

“I’ve made the efforts and mistakes that were necessary for me to be where I am today and I’m proud of it! I’ve written my story and ours comes to an end,” Benzema posted on Instagram.

Benzema in his international career for France scored 37 goals in 97 games.