By Miami, Florida, July 2024 – James Rodriguez was named the Copa America Player of the Tournament, even as Colombia fell 1-0 to Argentina in the final at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. The former Real Madrid, Monaco, and Everton midfielder, aged 33, showcased his enduring talent throughout the competition, guiding Colombia to the final.
Rodriguez’s exceptional playmaking abilities were on full display as he topped the tournament’s assist chart with six assists and also scored a goal. His performance was pivotal in Colombia’s journey to the final, earning him the prestigious Golden Ball award.
Despite Rodriguez’s efforts, Colombia finished as runners-up after a narrow defeat to Argentina in the tournament’s final. The match was decided by a single goal scored by Argentina’s Lautaro Martinez in extra time.
The Golden Ball award, first introduced in 1987, is given to the tournament’s best player. Rodriguez became the second Colombian to win this honor, following in the footsteps of Carlos Valderrama, who claimed the award in 1987.
Lionel Messi and Neymar were joint winners of the award in 2021 when the tournament was held in Brazil. Messi, who also shared the award in 2021, had previously won it outright in 2015.
Colombia was aiming for their second Copa America title, having last lifted the trophy in 2001. However, it was Argentina that made history by winning their 16th title, surpassing the record they previously shared with Uruguay.
