Real Madrid’s star forward Karim Benzema was declared the winner of the 2022 Ballon d’Or. 

Benzema was instrumental behind Real Madrid winning the 2021-22 UEFA Champions League. His goals in the most crucial moments helped Los Blancos reach the final, which they won against Liverpool.

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Besides Benzema, Real Madrid’s Thibaut Courtois was awarded the Yashine Trophy. Barcelona’s Gavi took home the Kopa Trophy 2022 while Alexia Putellas was declared the winner of the Ballon d’Or Feminin, which is her second win in as many years.

Who is Karim Benzema?

Born in Lyon, Karim Benzema started his senior careers with his home club Olympique Lyonnais in 2005. He contributed in the side’s three Ligue 1 wins. The 33-year-old was named the  National Union of Professional Footballers (UNFP) Player of the Year and in the Team of the Year in 2008. 

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He transferred to Spanish giants Real Madrid in a 2009 deal worth €35 million. At Santiago Bernabeu Benzema has won thirteen trophies, including three La Liga titles, two Copas del Rey, and four UEFA Champions League titles. He ranks as the club’s fourth all-time top goal scorer, as well as their all-time top assist provider.

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Karim Benzema made his senior debut for France at the age of 19 in 2007. He has earned over 90 caps. He scored his first goal in a friendly against Austria. 

After being charged with complicity in the blackmail attempt over a sex tape, Benzema was left out of the French squad for the 2010 World Cup. He did not play for France for over five years before returning to their squad for Euro 2020.