# James Rodriguez retires from Colombia after 15 years

> The 35-year-old captain leaves the national team after three World Cups and a legendary 2014 tournament performance.
- Title: James Rodriguez retires from Colombia after 15 years
- Summary: The 35-year-old captain leaves the national team after three World Cups and a legendary 2014 tournament performance. James Rodriguez, Colombia's 2014 World…
- Keywords: james rodriguez, colombia, retirement, world cup, copa america, atletico nacional, luis diaz, real madrid, golden boot, 2014 world cup, news, world
- Source: Malay Mail — https://malaymail.com/news/sports/2026/09/16/james-rodriguez-ends-colombia-career-after-15-years-and-three-world-cups/235343
- Published: 2026-09-16T09:25:03+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: james rodriguez, colombia, retirement, world cup, copa america, atletico nacional, luis diaz, real madrid, golden boot, 2014 world cup, news, world
## Rodriguez retires from Colombia
The 35-year-old captain announced his retirement from the national team after 15 years and three World Cups. He shared the news in an emotional social media video.

> I'm leaving with serenity because I know I gave absolutely everything
## The 2014 World Cup breakthrough
Rodriguez became a global superstar at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. He won the Golden Boot as top scorer and led Colombia to the quarter-finals for the first time.
## Recent Copa America success
Despite a nomadic club career in recent years, Rodriguez remained integral to Colombia. He helped lead the team to the Copa America final two years ago.
## Struggles at latest World Cup
At this year's World Cup, Rodriguez failed to score any goals. He was outshone by teammate Luis Diaz of Bayern Munich.
## Returns home to Atletico Nacional
Last week, the former Real Madrid midfielder joined Colombian side Atletico Nacional. He ends his international career back on home soil.
## Key takeaway

James Rodriguez, Colombia's 2014 World Cup Golden Boot winner, has retired from international football after 15 years of service.