As James Rodríguez prepares for what could be the final major tournament of his career, the timing of his new Netflixdocumentary feels almost poetic. More than a decade after captivating the world during the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, the Colombian superstar now finds himself approaching what many believe could be his final chapter in professional football.

Netflix’s upcoming three-part documentary series, James, premieres on May 21 and revisits the incredible rise of the man who became the face of Colombian football for an entire generation. Directed by Simón Brand, the series promises an intimate look at Rodríguez’s journey from his unforgettable World Cup breakout to global stardom with Real Madrid CFand FC Bayern Munich.

The documentary arrives at a pivotal moment. Reports suggest Rodríguez could retire following the FIFA World Cup 2026, closing the curtain on one of the most fascinating careers in modern football. While his club journey has taken him across Europe, the Middle East, South America, Mexico, and now Major League Soccer, his legacy has always been most strongly tied to the Colombian national team.

His recent move to Minnesota United FC has not gone as planned. Injuries, visa complications, fitness issues, and limited appearances have resulted in a difficult MLS stint, with reports now indicating Minnesota may part ways with Rodríguez shortly after the World Cup. If confirmed, it would mark yet another short-lived club chapter in a career that has often seen James shine brighter internationally than domestically.

Still, none of that changes what he represents to Colombia. For many fans, James Rodríguez will forever be remembered for the magic of 2014 — the stunning goals, the emotion, and the belief he inspired across an entire country. His iconic volley against Uruguay remains one of the greatest goals in World Cup history and earned him the FIFA Puskás Award that same year.

Now, at 34 years old, James heads into the 2026 tournament with one final opportunity to create another unforgettable moment on football’s biggest stage. Colombia opens the World Cup on June 17 against Uzbekistan, with Rodríguez expected to once again lead Los Cafeteros as captain and playmaker.

Whether this tournament becomes a farewell or one final renaissance, the Netflix documentary ensures James’s story will be remembered far beyond the statistics. It captures not only the rise of a football star, but the emotional journey of a player who carried the hopes of a nation and became one of the defining faces of Colombian sport.