James Rodríguez announced his retirement from Colombia’s national team on Tuesday after 15 years on the international stage.
“Today, I want to talk to you from the heart,” James posted on social media Tuesday. “After many years, many games and joys, and difficult moments, it’s time to close one of the most important chapters in my life: my journey with the Colombian national team.”
James, 35, made his international debut with Colombia in October 2011 in a match against Bolivia, where he scored the game-winning goal. He went on to become an integral part of the Colombian team, featuring in three World Cups in 2014, 2018 and 2026. Colombia did not qualify for the 2022 tournament in Qatar.
He won the Golden Boot at the 2014 World Cup, netting six goals in five games — including a memorable volley against Uruguay in a round-of-16 win over their continental rivals — that led to his signing with Real Madrid after the tournament.
“Wearing this shirt was a dream, but also a huge responsibility,” James added. “Every time I entered a court, I understood that he didn’t play just for me. I played for my family, teammates, thousands of Colombians who dreamed of all of us.
“I had the honor of wearing the No. 10 shirt and also the captain’s armband. I always tried to do it with respect, responsibility and understanding what it meant to represent Colombia. I had good days and very difficult ones, but I never stopped feeling proud of these colors.”
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James made his final appearance for Colombia on July 7 in a round-of-16 loss to Switzerland on penalties at the 2026 World Cup.
He concludes his international career with 31 goals and 43 assists in 131 games for Colombia and is tied with Carlos Valderrama and Freddy Rincón for the most tournament appearances by a Colombian. He also captained Colombia to the 2024 Copa América final — a loss to Argentina in the country’s first appearance in the title match in 23 years.
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“I’m leaving calmly because I gave everything. Thank you for every moment, thank you Colombia,” said James, who recently signed with Colombian side Atletico Nacional to continue his club career.
Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.
