France’s 2018 World Cup-winning forward, Antoine Griezmann, has announced his retirement from international football, ending a decade-long career with Les Bleus.
The 33-year-old Atletico Madrid star revealed his decision on Monday via his social media platform. His retirement brings an end to an illustrious international career that saw him earn 137 caps, a tally surpassed only by former teammates Hugo Lloris (145) and Lilian Thuram (142).
Griezmann, who made his France debut in March 2014, ranks fourth on the nation’s all-time goal-scoring list with 44 goals, trailing only Olivier Giroud, Thierry Henry, and current captain Kylian Mbappe. He played a pivotal role in France’s 2018 World Cup triumph, scoring in the 4-2 victory over Croatia in the final in Moscow.
The forward was also the top scorer in Euro 2016, where France finished runners-up, and he played a crucial part in their run to the 2022 World Cup final, which they lost on penalties to Argentina.
Griezmann’s final tournament with France, Euro 2024, ended in disappointment as the team failed to find their best form, despite reaching the semi-finals.
His last appearance for the national team came in a UEFA Nations League victory against Belgium earlier this month.
Griezmann’s decision marks the end of an era for the French side, following the international retirements of goalkeeper Hugo Lloris and defender Raphael Varane after the 2022 World Cup, with Giroud also stepping away from international duty after this year’s Euros.
France coach Didier Deschamps is expected to name his next squad on Thursday, ahead of Nations League fixtures against Israel on October 10 and Belgium on October 14.
