Benzema Retires From International Football On 35th Birthday

The news come less than 24 hours after France failed in their defence of the World Cup trophy, losing 4-2 on penalties to Argentina on Sunday after a riveting 3-3 draw at the Lusail Iconic stadium in Qatar.

Benzema only returned to the international fold last summer after a near six-year absence for an alleged blackmail case involving former teammate Mathieu Valbuena.

He missed France's EURO 2016 campaign and 2018 World Cup triumph as a result but his return to international duty ended with Nations League glory in October 2021.

Benzema was ruled out of the Qatar World Cup on the eve of the tournament after suffering a thigh injury in training.

It was rumored that Benzema would be making a return to the French squad ahead of the final, but he remained with Real Madrid despite recovering from his injury.

'I made the effort and the mistakes it took to be where I am today and I'm proud of it! I have written my story and ours is ending,' Benzema wrote on Instagram on Monday afternoon.

The former Olympique Lyon striker finishes his international career with 97 caps and 37 goals, having made his debut in 2007.

Benzema won the prestigious Ballon D'or award in October but has been dogged by fitness issues this term for club side Real Madrid.