Antoine Griezmann, the French forward and former World Cup champion, has officially announced his retirement from international football at the age of 33 on September 30, 2024. Griezmann was a key figure in France’s 2018 World Cup victory and was the top scorer during Euro 2016, where Les Bleus finished as runners-up.
The Atletico Madrid star leaves behind an impressive legacy as France’s third-most capped player, with 137 appearances, and the fourth-highest scorer in the nation’s history, netting 44 goals. His versatility shone through during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where he adopted a deeper midfield role, helping France reach the final and earning the tournament’s Silver Ball.
Griezmann also holds the record for the most consecutive matches played for France, with 84 appearances between November 2016 and March 2024.
In a heartfelt message on Instagram, Griezmann reflected on his decade-long career with the national team: “Today, it is with deep emotion that I’m announcing my retirement from the France team. After 10 incredible years filled with challenges, successes, and unforgettable moments, it is time for me to turn a page and make way for the new generation.”
Griezmann first made his mark during the 2014 World Cup in Brazil and solidified his position in the squad ahead of Euro 2016. He scored six goals in the tournament, including crucial strikes in victories against Ireland, Iceland, and Germany, although France ultimately fell to Portugal in the final. His performance earned him the Golden Boot and the Player of the Tournament award.
During the 2018 World Cup, Griezmann continued to play a pivotal role, scoring in the last-16 and quarter-final victories and converting a penalty in France’s 4-2 win over Croatia in the final. His outstanding performances earned him a third-place finish in the Ballon d’Or that year.
Though France underperformed at Euro 2020, Griezmann’s transition to midfield rejuvenated his international career, particularly during the 2022 World Cup. Many considered him the best player of the tournament, and he would have claimed the Golden Ball had France won the final against Argentina.
Griezmann’s retirement marks the end of an era for French football, with fans and teammates alike paying tribute to his remarkable contributions to Les Bleus.
