James Rodriguez Announces International Retirement After A Historic Career With Colombia

This golden period in the history of South American football has come to an end. Fans around the world have been moved by the announcement of James Rodriguez retiring from international football via a heart-warming video uploaded on his social media page.

The veteran forward, at 35 years of age, thanked the many fans who had been loyal to him throughout his incredible 15-year career. As a long-standing Colombian captain, he recognised that it was a dream fulfilled, as well as a great burden, to don the No. 10 jersey.

Upon examining the statistics he posted with his national team, his contribution to the game cannot be denied. After making his international debut and scoring the match-winning goal against Bolivia in 2011, James Rodriguez has managed to transform the national team.

Here is a brief glimpse of some amazing stats he leaves behind for his country:

• Highest Appearances: He leaves the national team as the highest-capped player ever for his country with 131 caps to his name.
• Biggest Scorer: He has been one hell of an attacking threat throughout his career, scoring 31 goals and providing 43 assists.
• World Cup Experience: He played in three World Cups for his country (2014, 2018, 2026).

For most football aficionados, the pinnacle of his career came in the 2014 World Cup hosted by Brazil. He took everyone by surprise when he managed to score six goals to claim the coveted Golden Boot, among which was his iconic volley against Uruguay, which bagged him the FIFA Puskás Award.

Of late, he led his side to the final of Copa America 2024 and took his side through the group stages of the 2026 World Cup. His last international game saw him play a tough battle against Switzerland in the round of 16 back in July.

Despite retiring from wearing the celebrated yellow jersey, his time in football will not entirely come to an end. He has now come back to sign for his domestic team, Atletico Nacional!