James Rodríguez has announced his retirement from international football at the age of 35, ending a 15-year career with Colombia.
The former Real Madrid and Everton midfielder finishes with 131 appearances and 31 goals for his country.
Rodríguez announced his decision in an emotional video, describing representing Colombia as one of the greatest honours of his life.
His defining international tournament came at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
Rodríguez scored six goals to win the Golden Boot, including his celebrated volley against Uruguay in the last 16.
The tournament transformed him into one of world football’s biggest names and was followed by his move to Real Madrid.
Rodríguez went on to represent Colombia at the 2018 and 2026 World Cups.
He also captained his country to the Copa América final in 2024.
His final international appearances came during Colombia’s run to the last 16 of this summer’s World Cup.
The announcement follows Rodríguez’s return to Colombian club football with Atlético Nacional after a career that included spells with Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Everton.
His Colombia career ends 12 years after the World Cup performance that made him a global star.
Sources
- Reuters – James Rodríguez announces retirement from international football
- FIFA – James Rodríguez calls time on Colombia career
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