James Rodríguez announces retirement from Colombia national team after 15 years

James Rodríguez used a video on X to confirm that he will not return to represent Colombia, marking the end of a 15-year stint with the national side. He reflected on the honor and weight of wearing the tricolor, noting he departs feeling calm after fully committing himself. Over his career he amassed 132 appearances, scored 32 goals and provided 37 assists, and served as captain for much of the past ten years.

Rodríguez was a key figure in Colombia’s run to the Copa América runner-up spot in 2024 and was the top scorer at the 2014 World Cup, earning the FIFA Puskás Award for a goal against Uruguay. After a club journey that included Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and others, he now plays for Atlético Nacional back in his home country.