James Rodríguez Retires From Colombia National Team After 131 Caps

James Rodríguez has announced his retirement from Colombia’s national team after a 15-year international career and appearances in the 2014, 2018 and 2026 World Cups. The 35-year-old midfielder and former captain leaves with 131 caps and 31 goals, having become one of the most important players in Colombian soccer history. Rodríguez’s defining moment came at the 2014 World Cup, where he scored six goals in five matches to win the Golden Boot and later earned a move to Real Madrid. He also captained Colombia to the 2024 Copa América final, where he was named the tournament’s best player. His final international appearance came at the 2026 World Cup, after which he returned to Colombian club soccer with Atlético Nacional.