Colombian soccer legend Carlos Valderrama, known around the world as much for his mass of frizzy blond hair as for his silky passing skills, celebrated his 50th birthday on Friday.
Valderrama, known as “El Pibe” – “the kid” – is Colombia’s most capped player, representing the national team 111 times and captaining the Cafeteros in three World Cups.
In a career spanning over 20 years, El Pibe plied his trade in Colombia, Spain, France and the U.S.
Valderrama remains a popular figure in Colombia eight years after retiring. In 2006, a 22-foot bronze statue of Valderrama was erected in his home town of Santa Marta.