Why Spain's Goalkeeper Is Known as 'The Saint'

Iker Casillas hopes to lead his team to a second straight World Cup title.

ByABC News
June 13, 2014, 2:43 PM
Iker Casillas of Real Madrid in action during a training session ahead of their UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg match against FC Bayern Muenchen at Allianz Arena on April 28, 2014 in Munich, Germany.
Iker Casillas of Real Madrid in action during a training session ahead of their UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg match against FC Bayern Muenchen at Allianz Arena on April 28, 2014 in Munich, Germany.
Angel Martinez/Real Madrid via Getty Images

— -- Pity the players who attempt to score on Spanish goalie Iker Casillas at the World Cup.

Casillas, who has represented his country more than any other Spanish player, is known for his quick reflexes and ability to keep his defense organized.

Throughout his 15-year career, Casillas has won everything there is to win for a pro -- including the World Cup -- and his epic saves have earned him the nickname "Saint Iker" from devout fans.

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In 2010, the goalkeeper, who also serves as team captain, wiped away tears after his team defeated the Netherlands 1-0 in South Africa. For Spain, it was their first World Cup title ever.

Casillas, 33, is ready to do it again in Brazil.

For his club Real Madrid, Casillas has been loyal. He got his start playing with Real Madrid's youth academy, known as La Fabrica, in 1990 and has been part of the team ever since -- a rarity in soccer where players change club teams as fast as they change their cleats.

Casillas is also a dad. He has a son with his partner, Sara Carbonero, who is also a sports journalist and covered the Spanish team at the last World Cup.

In addition, Casillas is also hot commodity for big brands and has garnered endorsements from Adidas, Reebok and Hyundai.