While soccer isn't the most popular sport in the United States, there's still much to be said about the talent and drive of famous soccer players who come out of America. We've ranked the top 30 soccer players from the U.S. Known for their grit, stamina, and precision on the field, these players have made a name for themselves first in college and then professionally. These soccer stars are among the best and brightest in American history. Read on to learn more about the top American soccer players, their professional and college careers, and their statistics.
| Top American Soccer Players | Career Highlight |
|---|---|
| Michelle Akers | 2× World Cup |
| Mia Hamm | 2× World Cup |
| Clint Dempsey | 3 World Cups |
| Hope Solo | 2 Olympic Golds |
| Christian Pulisic | Gold Cup (2021) |
| Landon Donovan | 6× MLS Cup |
| Abby Wambach | FIFA World Player of the Year (2012) |
| Brian McBride | 3 World Cups |
| Claudio Reyna | 4 World Cups |
| Alex Morgan | 2 World Cups |
| Megan Rapinoe | 2 World Cups |
| Carli Lloyd | 2 Olympic Golds |
| Kristine Lilly | World record 354 caps / 130 goals |
| Tim Howard | 3 World Cups |
| Michael Bradley | 2 Gold Cups |
| Eric Wynalda | Gold Cup (1991) |
| Tobin Heath | 2 Olympic Golds |
| Kelley O’Hara | Olympic Gold |
| Christen Press | 2 World Cups |
| Julie Ertz | 2 World Cups |
| Tony Meola | Gold Cup (1991) |
| Brad Friedel | 3 World Cups |
| Shannon Boxx | 3 Olympic Golds |
| Julie Foudy | 2 World Cups |
| Eddie Pope | 3 World Cups |
| Steve Cherundolo | 3 World Cups |
| Shannon Higgins-Cirovski | 1991 World Cup winner |
| Joe-Max Moore | 2 World Cups |
| Abby Smith | Olympic/World Cup |
| Omar González | 3× MLS Cup |
Top 30 Best American Soccer Players Ever
These soccer players are among the best in American history. They've brought artistry, athleticism, and determination to the field. Some of them have broken records and paved the way for future players. All of them have helped shape the sport into what it is today in the U.S.
30. Omar Gonzalez
First up for top male soccer players is Omar Gonzalez. Recognized for his height and build, Gonzalez secured LA Galaxy’s defense in the midst of a dynasty run. This center-back's aerial skills and composure made him successful in both MLS and in Mexico (Pachuca) as he's won titles in the U.S. and internationally. While not a USMNT star, Gonzalez has proven to be steady in major tournaments.
29. Abby Smith
At 31, Smith is among the new generation of US goalkeeper greats. She's most known for her fast reflexes, which she uses to stop shots with precision. While she's not yet an American soccer legend, she's consistent, which earns her a spot on this list.
28. Joe-Max Moore
- College: UCLA (1989–1992)
- Clubs: New England Revolution, Everton, FC Nürnberg
- USMNT: 100 caps, 24 goals
- Trophies: 3x Gold Cup runnerup (1993, 1996, 1998), played in 3 World Cups
With versatility as his strength, Moore was a forward with a penchant for timely goals who could double as a striker or attacking midfielder. He was known for his flair and determination on the field in both the MLS and the Premier League. His time at Everton turned him into one of the first respected American players in the Premier League.
27. Shannon Higgins-Cirovski
- College: University of North Carolina (1986–1989)
- Clubs: United States
- USWNT: 51 caps, 7 goals
- Trophies: Women’s World Cup champion (1991)
Higgins was a pioneer in women’s soccer. She was a playmaking midfielder who laid the groundwork for USWNT dominance. Using her progressive vision and top-notch leadership skills, Higgins helped shape the USWNT culture for future World Cup winnings.
26. Steve Cherundolo
Cherundolo was one of the most respected American right-backs in Europe. Spending nearly 15 years at Hannover, he earned the nickname “Mayor of Hannover.” A model of consistency, he was a solid defender for the USMNT. Today, he's a coach at Los Angeles FC.
Cherundolo's nickname is Mayor of Hannover as he spent 15 years at the Club.
25. Eddie Pope
- College: University of North Carolina (1992–1995)
- Clubs: D.C. United, MetroStars, Real Salt Lake
- USMNT: 82 caps, 8 goals
- Trophies: 3× MLS Cup, Gold Cup (2005)
Playing across a variety of US teams, Pope was a talented center-back known for his smart defense. His calm-under-pressure attitude and expert defending earned him respect both nationally and internationally. Playing in three World Cups, Pope is a member of the National Soccer Hall of Fame.
24. Julie Foudy
- College: Stanford University (1989–1992)
- Clubs: San Diego Spirit, Sacramento Storm
- USWNT: 274 caps, 45 goals
- Trophies: 2× World Cup (1991, 1999), 2× Olympic Gold
As a midfielder in the '90s, Foudy was part of the USWNT midfield during its heyday. She's celebrated for her leadership, intelligence, and grit. Today, Foudy shares her insight as an analyst, reporter, and commentator for ESPN. Off the field, she’s been an advocate for women in sports.
23. Shannon Boxx
- College: University of Notre Dame (1995–1998)
- Clubs: Chicago Red Stars, FC Gold Pride, New York Power
- USWNT: 195 caps, 27 goals
- Trophies: 3× Olympic Gold, 1× World Cup (2015)
Boxx was a defending midfielder with strong tactical skills. She is most known for her positioning on the field. Retiring in 2015, Boxx had a highly respected career and continues to share her wisdom via interviews and podcasts. In 2022, she was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame.
22. Brad Friedel
- College: None
- Clubs: Liverpool, Aston Villa, Tottenham
- USMNT: 82 caps
- Trophies: Gold Cup (2002)
Friedel holds legend status as a goalkeeper. Not only did he play in three World Cups, but he also holds the record for most consecutive Premier League appearances at 310. Friedel started his career abroad early, skipping the college pathway, making him one of the most respected American exports.
21. Tony Meola
Often called the face of U.S. goalkeeping in the 1990s, Meola began his professional career by signing with the U.S. Soccer Federation just before the 1990 World Cup. His shot-stopping and leadership skills helped make the USMNT competitive on the world stage in 1990 and 1994. A pioneer for American keepers, he was celebrated for his confidence and consistency.
20. Julie Ertz
A Swiss Army knife of a player, Ertz excelled equally at defense or midfield. She was the second youngest team member when she played in the World Cup at 23. Age didn't keep her from bringing leadership and intensity to the field, though. She was pivotal for the USWNT during two World Cup wins.
19. Christen Press
- College: Stanford University (2007–2010)
- Clubs: Chicago Red Stars, Manchester United, Angel City
- USWNT: 155 caps, 64 goals
- Trophies: 2× World Cup (2015, 2019), Olympic Bronze (2020)
Press is a decorated forward with impressive movement and clinical finishing skills. She brings strong pacing and flair to the field. She co-hosts the podcast, The RE-CAP Show, with Tobin Heath.
18. Kelley O’Hara
- College: Stanford University (2006–2009)
- Clubs: Sky Blue FC, Washington Spirit, Gotham FC
- USWNT: 160 caps, 3 goals
- Trophies: 2× World Cup (2015, 2019), 1× Olympic Gold (2012)
O’Hara was a versatile wingback with a unique sense of grit and drive. Having played nearly every position, she was known for delivering in big games. O'Hara announced her retirement in 2024.
17. Tobin Heath
Heath is often referred to as the most creative player of her generation. She's known for her dribbles and flair. A fan favorite for her street-ball style and precise playmaking, Heath has played both on home turf and abroad.
Tobin Heath won two World Cup trophies.
16. Eric Wynalda
- College: San Diego State University (1987–1989)
- Clubs: Miami Fusion, San Jose Clash
- USMNT: 106 caps, 34 goals
- Trophies: Gold Cup (1991), 3× World Cup participant
A dynamic and fiery player, Wynalda was one of the first Americans to play for a top-level German club. After coming back to the States, he scored the first goal in MLS history and earned the nickname "Eric the Red Card." Wynalda coached for a decade following his years as a player.
15. Michael Bradley
- College: None
- Clubs: Heerenveen, Roma, Toronto FC
- USMNT: 151 caps, 17 goals
- Trophies: Gold Cup (2007, 2017), MLS Cup (2017)
Bradley was the heartbeat of the U.S. midfield for more than a decade. His leadership and tactical skills helped the USMNT stand out on the world stage. Bradley is considered one of the most respected American captains in soccer history.
14. Tim Howard
Howard is the most capped American goalkeeper of all time. He made 121 appearances from 2002 until he retired in 2017. An international star, Howard was celebrated by both American and English fans.
13. Kristine Lilly
- College: University of North Carolina (1989–1992)
- Clubs: Boston Breakers
- USWNT: 354 caps (world record), 130 goals
- Trophies: 2× World Cup (1991, 1999), 2× Olympic Gold
Lilly is a pioneer in women's soccer. She contributed to nearly every major USWNT win and is most celebrated for her consistency and fitness. She is the USWNT's fourth-highest goal scorer.
12. Carli Lloyd
- College: Rutgers University (2001–2004)
- Clubs: Houston Dash, Sky Blue FC, Gotham FC
- USWNT: 316 caps, 134 goals
- Trophies: 2× World Cup, 2× Olympic Gold
Lloyd was a record-breaking player. She contributed a major moment in U.S. sports history as she's the second player to ever score a hat-trick in a World Cup final. She played many international matches with the USWNT as well as with a number of clubs across the country.
11. Megan Rapinoe
Rapinoe is a cultural icon known for her brilliant play and her activism off the field. Her domination in the sport was even recognized with a Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2022. Rapinoe spent the majority of her career playing for OL Reign, but also played at a variety of clubs in the U.S. and abroad.
10. Alex Morgan
- College: University of California, Berkeley (2007–2010)
- Clubs: Orlando Pride, San Diego Wave
- USWNT: 224 caps, 123 goals
- Trophies: 2× World Cup, 1× Olympic Gold
Morgan is the face of the USWNT today. She's celebrated for her speed, finishing and is perhaps seen as one of the most intimidating strikers in the world. Morgan announced her retirement in 2024.
9. Claudio Reyna
- College: University of Virginia (1991–1993)
- Clubs: Rangers, Manchester City
- USMNT: 112 caps, 8 goals
- Trophies: Gold Cup (2002), World Cup All-Star (2002)
Reyna was famous for being one of the most technically gifted American midfielders of his time. His ability to remain calm under pressure was world-class. He captained the USMNT during multiple World Cup runs. In the U.K., Reyna earned the nickname Captain America due to his captaining of the U.S. team.
8. Brian McBride
- College: Saint Louis University (1990–1993)
- Clubs: Fulham, Columbus Crew, Chicago Fire
- USMNT: 96 caps, 30 goals
- Trophies: Gold Cup (2002), Fulham captain, 3× World Cup participant
McBride spent his career across the U.S., Germany, and England. He was regarded as tough, fearless, and clinical in the air. He is the general manager of the USMNT and owns a soccer academy.
7. Abby Wambach
Wambach is an iconic representation of the modern USWNT. She was the first ever soccer player to be named Athlete of the Year by the AP. In her retirement, she writes books and hosts a podcast with her wife, Glennon Doyle.
6. Landon Donovan
- College: None
- Clubs: LA Galaxy, Everton
- USMNT: 157 caps, 57 goals
- Trophies: 4× Gold Cup, 6× MLS Cup, 7× USMNT Player of the Year
The most decorated American male player, Donovan is known for his vision, touch, and knack for clutch goals. He's the USMNT’s all-time assist leader and joint top scorer. It's safe to say that Donovan was the face of U.S. soccer during his career. He has managed the San Diego Loyal and the San Diego Wave.
5. Christian Pulisic
- College: None
- Clubs: Chelsea, AC Milan
- USMNT: 66 caps, 30 goals
- Trophies: Gold Cup (2021), CONCACAF Nations League, Champions League winner
Pulisic is a highly gifted player still early in his career. His speed, dribbling, and instincts have made him a star on European teams. At only 26, he's already made a name for himself and may one day top this list.
4. Hope Solo
- College: University of Washington (1999–2002)
- Clubs: Seattle and Reign, Lyon
- USWNT: 202 caps
- Trophies: 1× World Cup (2015), 2× Olympic Gold
Hope Solo is the best women’s goalkeeper in recent history. She was highly celebrated for her athleticism, shot-stopping, and swagger, which defined the USWNT’s defensive identity. You can learn more about her story in her memoir.
3. Clint Dempsey
- College: Furman University (2001–2003)
- Clubs: Fulham, Tottenham, Seattle Sounders
- USMNT: 141 caps, 57 goals
- Trophies: 3x Gold Cup (2005, 2007, 2017)
A decorated forward, Clint Dempsey has played both in the U.S. and U.K. He is the fourth most-capped American player and ties with Landon Donovan as the top all-time scorer. His skills have been recognized by the National Soccer Hall of Fame, where he was inducted in 2022.
2. Mia Hamm
Hamm is one of the most iconic figures in U.S. soccer history. She was admired for her speed, intelligence, and humility, which helped her become the face of women’s soccer globally. Hamm earned many awards and honors throughout her career in addition to inspiring generations of women to play soccer.
There are always new, grander challenges to confront, and a true winner will embrace each one.
Mia Hamm
1. Michelle Akers
- College: University of Central Florida (1985–1988)
- Clubs: Tyresö FF, Orlando Lions
- USWNT: 155 caps, 107 goals
- Trophies: 2× World Cup (1991, 1999), 1× Olympic Gold, 1991 World Cup Golden Boot
An inspiration and game-changer in women's soccer, Akers was an extremely skilled player. She was the lead scorer in the inaugural Women’s World Cup, controlled midfields and front lines, and played through chronic illness with unmatched courage. To put it simply, Akers is the most talented American soccer player of any gender.
Now that you know the top 30 American soccer players, learn about the top college soccer teams today.
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