James Rodriguez retires from international football after 15 at 35
James Rodriguez has retired from international football at 35 after 15 years with Colombia, leaving behind a career highlighted by the 2014 World Cup Golden Boot and 131 appearances.
James Rodriguez has announced his retirement from international football at the age of 35, bringing an end to a 15-year Colombia career that made him one of the defining figures in the country’s modern football history.
The midfielder confirmed his decision on social media shortly after returning to Colombian club football with Atletico Nacional, saying he felt the time had come to close an important chapter of his life.
Rodriguez made his senior debut in 2011 and became a global star at the 2014 World Cup, where his six goals earned him the tournament’s Golden Boot and helped Colombia reach the quarter-finals.
His performances in Brazil earned him a move to Real Madrid, but it was with his country that he arguably produced his most influential football. He later represented Colombia at the 2018 and 2026 World Cups, with his final international appearance coming in the 2026 tournament against Switzerland.
Rodriguez also played a central role in Colombia’s run to the 2024 Copa America final and finished his international career with 131 appearances, 31 goals and 43 assists.
His departure marks the end of an era for a player who wore Colombia’s No.10 shirt and captain’s armband while carrying the expectations of a football-mad nation.
Rodriguez will now concentrate on club football after signing for Atletico Nacional, returning home after years spent playing across Europe, South America and North America.
