France Star, Antoine Griezmann Retires from International Football
France’s 2018 World Cup champion Antoine Griezmann announced his retirement from international football on Monday, ending a decade-long career with the national team.
“With a heart full of memories, I am closing this chapter of my life,” wrote the 33-year-old France vice-captain on X.
Griezmann, currently playing for Atletico Madrid, made his debut for France in March 2014 and earned 137 caps, making him the third-most capped French player, behind Hugo Lloris (145) and Lilian Thuram (142).
With 44 goals, he ranks fourth on France’s all-time scoring list, trailing Olivier Giroud, Thierry Henry, and current captain Kylian Mbappe.
Griezmann played a key role in France’s 2018 World Cup victory, scoring in the 4-2 final win over Croatia. He also led France to the Euro 2016 final, finishing as the tournament’s top scorer with six goals.
He was a standout performer during France’s run to the 2022 World Cup final, where they lost to Argentina on penalties.
His last major international tournament, Euro 2024, saw France reach the semi-finals, though the team underperformed overall.
Griezmann’s final appearance for France was in a UEFA Nations League victory against Belgium earlier this month.
His retirement marks the end of an era for France, following similar decisions from Hugo Lloris, Raphael Varane, and Olivier Giroud.
Coach Didier Deschamps is expected to announce the next France squad on Thursday for upcoming Nations League fixtures against Israel and Belgium.
