Real Madrid's Karim Benzema wins Ballon d'Or 2022

The French star was the clear favourite to lift the title

Real Madrid and French star Karim Benzema wins the 2022 Ballon d'Or. Karim Benzema was arguably the best player in world football last season and his performances shocked everyone.

The French striker had a dream run and formed a dream-like understanding with Vinicius Jr in the attack. While the Brazilian may have scored the winning goal against Liverpool in the final but many may argue that he single-handedly took Real Madrid to the UEFA Champions League triumph. The striker also netted in his 17 consecutive UEFA Champions League seasons, the joint-most. He has netted from the 2005-06 to 2021-22 season. This record is only equalled by Lionel Messi.

The Real Madrid captain also led his side to a LaLiga triumph. He also made his comeback on the international stage and helped his national side France to the UEFA Nations League title. Overall the French striker scored 48 goals and provided 15 assists last season across all competitions.

At the start of the new season. Benzema captained his side to the UEFA Super Cup title. Despite missing a few games due to injury this season, the forward has already recorded 5 goals and 1 assist in 10 appearances across all competitions.

Benzema becomes the first French player to win the Ballon d'Or since Zinedine Zidane back in 1998. He also becomes only the second man to win the Ballon d'Or in the Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi era alongside Real Madrid team mate Luka Modrić. Benzema's win also means that Real Madrid are now tied with FC Barcelona in the list for the most Ballon d'Or winners by football clubs. The French striker will now be looking to take his excellent form into the 2022 Qatar World Cup and helping France defed their crown.