Benzema says France career 'ending'

PARIS, Dec. 19 (Xinhua) -- France striker Karim Benzema appeared to announce his retirement from international football on Monday after missing the FIFA World Cup in Qatar due to injury.

The 35-year-old was ruled out of the tournament a day before it began after tearing a muscle in his left thigh while training.

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

The announcement came a day after France lost a thrilling World Cup final to Argentina 4-2 on penalties.

Benzema enjoyed a superb year for Real Madrid, leading the Spanish club to the UEFA Champions League and La Liga titles and winning the Ballon d'Or award.