Soccer, for the most part, has been a divisive sport in the United States. Yet, American soccer has experienced significant growth and evolution over the years. We’ve also seen some legends of the game don the American jersey who have made soccer what it is today. That’s why in this article, we’ll be honoring the best American soccer players in both the men’s and women’s game.
Celebrating outstanding players is not only a nod to their personal accomplishments but also a testament to the collective progress of American soccer. Over the years, the nation has produced exceptional talents who have left a lasting impact on the sport.
So, let’s dive straight into the list of the best American players to grace the pitch in both USMNT and USWNT jerseys.
Best American Men’s Soccer Players
1. Landon Donovan
Position: Winger, Forward
International Caps: 157, Goals: 57
Few players have embodied American soccer like Landon Donovan. He is widely regarded as the greatest American male soccer player alongside Clint Dempsey, but for our list of the best American soccer players, Donovan took the top spot (if only by a fine margin).
The journey began in the 2002 World Cup, where Donovan’s breakout performance earned him the Best Young Player award during the U.S. team’s remarkable quarterfinal run. Ever since then, Donovan hasn’t looked back and has gone on to become USA’s leading assist provider (58) and goal scorer (57).
His club career was no less impressive. While he spent most of his club career with the LA Galaxy, Donovan added a touch of the Premier League with noteworthy loan spells at Everton in 2010 and 2012.
Landon Donovan continues his soccer story as the Executive Vice President of Soccer Operations for San Diego Loyal.
2. Clint Dempsey
Position: Forward, Midfielder
International Caps: 141, Goals: 57
The second entry in our list of the greatest American soccer players, Clint Dempsey could’ve easily featured as our top pick.
He played the game of soccer with a certain swagger about him. But focusing only on the swagger of his game wouldn’t do justice to the soccer abilities that made him truly memorable.
Affectionately known as “Deuce,” Dempsey’s career was marked by moments of brilliance, even if he wasn’t always the most consistent player. His effectiveness often depended on fitting into a particular system, yet when at his best, Dempsey was nothing short of unplayable. He had the ability to dismantle opposition defences with ease and rise to the occasion when it mattered the most.
In the words of Bruce Arena, who succinctly captured Dempsey’s playing style, “He tries sh—t.” Dempsey’s fearless approach and ability to seize the moment made him a standout figure in American soccer history.
While the debate over the greatest American player continues, there’s no denying that Clint Dempsey’s audacity and knack for the spectacular have left an enduring legacy in the beautiful game.
3. Tim Howard
Position: Goalkeeper
International Caps: 121
Next on our list is the greatest goalkeeper in United State’s history – Tim Howard.
Starting with the now-defunct MetroStars in MLS, Howard’s journey took a sensational turn when he made a move to Manchester United.
However, it was at Everton where Howard truly solidified his reputation, spending an impressive 10 years and amassing 329 appearances for the club. A standout moment in his career occurred on January 4, 2012, when Howard scored against Bolton Wanderers, becoming only the fourth goalkeeper to score a goal in the Premier League.
In 2016, Howard made a triumphant return to MLS, signing with the Colorado Rapids. Over the course of three years with the Rapids, he continued to showcase his goalkeeping prowess before ultimately retiring in October 2019.
On the international level, Howard is the most capped goalkeeper in the history of the United States men’s national team. He amassed 121 caps from 2002 until his international retirement in 2017.
Howard also started in all the 2010 and 2014 FIFA World Cup games, reaching the Round of 16 on both occasions. Notably, during the 2014 World Cup, Howard set a record for the most saves in a single match, making an astounding 16 saves against Belgium in the Round of 16.
4. Walter Bahr
Position: Midfielder
International Caps: 19, Goals: 1
In the pantheon of American soccer legends, Walter Bahr stands as a timeless figure who has etched his name into the history of the United States men’s national team. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest to have ever played the game in the United States.
Bahr’s impact on American soccer was significant, particularly during his years as the captain of the national team. One of the defining moments of his career came during the 1950 World Cup when he played a crucial role in Joe Gaetjens’ historic goal, leading to the United States’ stunning 1-0 upset victory over England. This victory remains one of the most iconic moments in U.S. soccer history.
His contributions to American soccer were duly recognized when he was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 1976.
5. Jozy Altidore
Position: Striker
International Caps: 115, Goals: 42
Josmer Volmy “Jozy” Altidore is renowned for his physicality as a striker. Hailing from New Jersey, Altidore made his professional debut with the New York Red Bulls in 2006, marking the beginning of a career that would see him don jerseys for clubs in Spain, Turkey, England, the Netherlands, and Mexico.
A key member of the 2010 and 2014 United States’ World Cup teams, Altidore has etched his name among the elite American goal scorers on the international level. He ranks third in the United States all-time goal scorers list with an impressive tally of 42 goals.
Jozy Altidore’s dynamic and passionate playing style has made him one of the more energetic figures in U.S. soccer history.
6. Claudio Reyna
Position: Midfielder
International Caps: 112, Goals: 8
Claudio Reyna, one of the most celebrated American players in the history of soccer, has left his mark on both the national team and the international football stage.
From 1994 to 2006, Reyna amassed an impressive 112 caps, representing the United States in four World Cups, three CONCACAF Gold Cups, and two U.S. Olympic teams. His influence wasn’t confined to the national team, as he made significant contributions at the club level throughout his illustrious career.
Despite being the son of Argentinian parents, Claudio Reyna chose to embody U.S. soccer by playing college soccer at Virginia under the guidance of Bruce Arena. During his college career, he earned the prestigious MAC Hermann Trophy as the best collegiate player in the nation.
Reyna’s club career took him to various corners of Europe. He showcased his talent at German clubs Bayer Leverkusen and Wolfsburg, Scottish giants Rangers, and English clubs Sunderland and Manchester City. He concluded his playing career with a brief stint at the New York Red Bulls domestically.
While Reyna’s career was marked by unfortunate injuries, his on-field performances were nothing short of dazzling. Reyna captained the U.S. team for a significant period, leading the squad during the 2002 World Cup, where they made history by reaching the quarterfinals for the first time.
7. DaMarcus Beasley
Position: Left Wing Back, Left Winger
International Caps: 126, Goals: 17
DaMarcus Beasley showcased versatility as both a left winger and left-wing back. He became a legend of the American game mainly due to an enduring international career that spanned the globe.
He left his mark at renowned clubs like PSV, Rangers, Hannover, Puebla, and a loan stint at Manchester City. Returning to MLS, Beasley flourished at Chicago Fire and Houston Dynamo, claiming victory in the U.S. Open Cup three times.
However, Beasley’s pinnacle moments shone brightest in the U.S. national team jersey. His five Gold Cup triumphs, including the 2005 Golden Boot award, stand as remarkable achievements. Notably, he excelled in a crucial full-back role, a position of historical weakness for the United States, earning recalls to the national team even after retirement.
Beasley’s legacy also includes being part of four World Cup squads, a feat shared by just two other U.S. players. Even today, he remains a cherished figure in the rich tapestry of U.S. soccer history. DaMarcus Beasley has been an inductee in the National Soccer Hall of Fame since 2022.
8. Brad Friedel
Position: Goalkeeper
International Caps: 82
The second goalkeeper in our list of the best American soccer players is Brad Friedel. Some would even consider him ahead of Tim Howard, but we had to give him the eighth position on our list.
He notched 288 appearances in eight years at Blackburn Rovers. Friedel also showcased his prowess with over 100 appearances at Aston Villa before concluding his career with a four-year stint at Tottenham.
A true EPL mainstay, Friedel holds the record for the most Premier League appearances by any North or South American player – 450 in total, which is also second only to Australia’s Mark Schwarzer among non-Europeans.
His final professional game in May 2011 came just days past his 40th birthday. He again he proved his consistency at the highest level by making 310 consecutive EPL match appearances, a record.
On the international stage, Friedel’s prominence reached its peak in the 2002 World Cup, earning him the nickname “The Human Wall.” His heroics propelled the U.S. to the quarterfinals. In that tournament, Friedel made history by becoming the first goalkeeper since 1976 to save two non-shootout penalties at a World Cup.
Friedel’s international success is even more noteworthy given the stiff competition from U.S. goalkeeping greats like Tony Meola, Kasey Keller, and Tim Howard for the starting position.
9. Christian Pulisic
Position: Winger, Attacking Midfielder
International Caps: 64, Goals: 28
Christian Pulisic made his debut on the national stage in 2012 with the Under-15 squad. Since then he has become a sensation and superstar of US soccer. At just 25 years of age, Pulisic has already scored an impressive 28 goals for the US national team.
Widely known as “Captain America,” Pulisic is renowned for his exceptional skills. In fact, he’s considered to be the most talented players ever produced by the United States.
Despite his young age, Pulisic has accumulated 38 goals while playing for European giants Borussia Dortmund and Chelsea. Now, he is set to showcase his talents for AC Milan.
While Pulisic may not have recorded truly memorable moments in a U.S. shirt at this point, his skill and potential are undeniable. Plus, he has already earned the title of U.S. Soccer Male Athlete of the Year three times.
10. Brian McBride
Position: Forward
International Caps: 96, Goals: 30
The last player on our list of the best American men’s players is the rock solid Brian McBride. McBride was a player who left it all on the soccer field. You could always count on him to give a solid performance.
His journey began with a seven-year stint at the Columbus Crew, setting the stage for a move to Fulham. In just four years with the London club, McBride became a legend there. The fans loved him so much that his name was immortalized on a restaurant and bar at Fulham’s Craven Cottage.
He was Fulham’s top scorer in the 2006/07 Premier League due to which he earned the captain’s armband the following year.
But his true resilience came to the forefront during the 2007/08 season when he returned from a gruesome knee injury to play a pivotal role in Fulham’s “Great Escape”. Brian McBride’s twelve goals that season played a crucial role in helping Fulham escape the relegation spots.
Internationally, McBride played a critical role in the USMNT’s memorable 2002 World Cup run to the quarterfinals. He scored crucial goals against Portugal in the group stage and Mexico in the Round of 16. His early opener against Mexico set the stage for the historic “Dos a Cero” victory, the only World Cup knockout stage win in USMNT history that still resonates today.
Best American Women’s Soccer Players
1. Mia Hamm
Position: Forward, Midfielder
International Caps: 276, Goals: 158
Mia Hamm was the original superstar of U.S. soccer and is deservedly on top of our list of the best American Women’s soccer players of all time.
During her remarkable tenure with the USWNT from 1987 to 2004, Hamm’s influence was unparalleled. With 276 caps, she ranks fourth all-time, and her 158 goals place her second. Yet, it’s her 147 assists that stand as a record, showcasing her all round playing ability.
A four-time World Cup participant and three-time Olympian, Hamm’s accolades also include five USSF Female Athlete of the Year awards and two FIFA Women’s World Player of the Year titles.
Off the field, Hamm also continues to shape soccer’s landscape. As a co-owner of Los Angeles FC and Angel City FC, global ambassador for FC Barcelona, and a board member of Serie A club A.S. Roma, she remains a driving force in the sport’s growth and development.
Mia Hamm’s impact on soccer, both as a player and a leader, solidifies her status as one of the true legends of the game.
2. Hope Solo
Position: Goalkeeper
International Caps: 202
You will have a hard time finding a better goalkeeper than Hope Solo in women’s soccer. That’s why she was an easy second place in our list of the best American women’s players of all time.
Her 202 career international appearances not only make her the most capped American goalkeeper but also a towering figure in the history of the sport. On top of that, she also hold the record of the most clean sheets in women’s soccer with 102.
Her contributions were pivotal across three World Cup teams and two gold-medal-winning Olympic squads, earning her FIFA Women’s World Cup Golden Glove awards and winner’s medals.
Off the pitch, Solo is infamous for her outspoken nature. But that hasn’t made a dent on her legacy as she was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 2022.
Moreover, Solo’s name is etched in the record books with numerous U.S. goalkeeper records. Her records include appearances, starts, wins, shutouts, wins in a season, consecutive minutes played, and the longest undefeated streak.
3. Michelle Akers
Position: Midfielder, Forward
International Caps: 155, Goals: 107
Michelle Akers was the first star of the US Women’s National Team history. Her prowess on the field was highlighted by a still-standing record of 10 goals in the inaugural 1991 World Cup.
During the 1991 World Cup final, Akers etched her name in history by scoring both goals in a triumphant 2-1 victory over Norway. Her versatility as a forward and midfielder was evident in her 155 appearances for the United States, amassing an impressive 107 goals and 36 assists.
In 1994, Akers faced adversity with a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome. Undeterred, she made lifestyle changes, including adjustments to her diet and hydration. This change allowed her to play a key role in the Americans’ 1996 Olympic gold medal and the 1999 World Cup victory.
Akers retired in 2000 and is remembered not only for her remarkable production but also for her passion and diverse skill set. Former USWNT head coach Anson Dorrance aptly described her as an “iconic warrior,” asserting that she remains the most complete player of all time.
A foundational member of the inaugural United States Women’s National Team in 1985, Akers has earned her place in the National Soccer Hall of Fame. Her contributions were further recognized when she was named FIFA Female Player of the Century in 2002.
4. Shannon Boxx
Position: Midfielder
International Caps: 195, Goals: 27
Shannon Boxx is one of the most decorated players in USWNT history. She carved her legacy as a key contributor to the team’s success through her defensive midfield position.
The former Notre Dame star’s illustrious career spanned four World Cup tournaments (2003, ’07, ’11, ’15), and winning it in 2015. Boxx was also a pivotal presence on three gold-medal-winning U.S. Olympic squads (2004, ’08, ’12).
From 2003 to 2015, Boxx showcased her talent with 27 goals and 127 caps for the national team. Her impact extended to the club level as well, where she last played for the Chicago Red Stars in the American National Women’s Soccer League.
Defensive midfielders often go unnoticed, but her achievements didn’t. She was a finalist for the 2005 FIFA World Player of the Year award which was eventually given to Birgit Prinz of Germany.
Shannon Boxx was also inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 2022.
5. Carli Lloyd
Position: Midfielder, Forward
International Caps: 316, Goals: 134
Carli Lloyd is a modern day legend of women’s soccer and is one of the most decorated and celebrated players in the history of the game. Her retirement in 2021 marked the conclusion of an illustrious career that solidified her place among the greats.
Lloyd’s remarkable career is highlighted by her impressive statistics. She ranks second in career caps with 316, and third in both goals (134) and assists (134).
Her contributions were also integral to four World Cup teams (2007, 2011, ’15, ’19) and three U.S. Olympic teams (2008, ’12, ’20).
Lloyd’s exceptional skill and performance were duly recognized with two FIFA Player of the Year awards in 2015 and ’16, as well as the U.S. Soccer Athlete of the Year honor in 2008.
A prolific attacker, Lloyd’s influence extends beyond her goal-scoring prowess. With over 100 assists, she leaves a lasting legacy as one of the most versatile and impactful players in American soccer history.
6. Alex Morgan
Position: Striker
International Caps: 215, Goals: 121
If you’re a fan of soccer, then you know about Alex Morgan. She has left her mark on the sport, not just in the United States but on the international stage.
Her national team journey began in 2008 with the Under-20s, and two years later, Morgan was called up to represent the United States. As of the 2023 World Cup, her remarkable stats of 121 goals, 49 assists, and 215 caps all rank among the top 10 in American women’s soccer history.
She’s also a two-time U.S. Soccer Female Athlete of the Year, and has played pivotal roles in winning two World Cups, three CONCACAF W Championships, a FIFA U-20 World Cup, and an Olympic title.
In 2013, she joined Portland Thorns FC in the inaugural season of the National Women’s Soccer League, contributing to the team’s league title victory. Her stint with the Thorns continued until 2015 when she was traded to the Orlando Pride.
Morgan’s soccer journey took her to new heights in 2017 when she signed with French powerhouse Lyon. There she won the UEFA Women’s Champions League as a part of the continental European treble.
Off the field, Morgan’s influence extends beyond her impressive playing career. In 2015, she was ranked as the top-paid American women’s soccer player. She also became one of the first women’s soccer players to feature on the cover of FIFA video games in 2015.
Alex Morgan’s journey continues to be a source of inspiration, both for aspiring athletes and those who appreciate the power of women in sports and society.
7. Abby Wambach
Position: Forward
International Caps: 256, Goals: 184
Abby Wambach is a towering figure in women’s soccer and is one of the greatest American players.
She took the phrase “use your head” literally. Wambach demonstrated unparalleled skill in aerial duels. Of her record-breaking 184 international goals, an astounding 77 were scored with her head.
But the moment that really solidified Wambach’s name as a legend of the game was her 122nd-minute equalizer against Brazil in the 2011 World Cup quarterfinals, which saved the U.S. from an early exit.
Her ability to perform in crucial situations became a hallmark of her illustrious career. Wambach’s international journey spanned four World Cups and two Olympics, where she scored 23 goals in 35 appearances.
Beyond her on-field achievements, Wambach continues to contribute to the sport’s growth for U.S. women after retiring. In 2019, her impact was immortalized with induction into the National Soccer Hall of Fame.
8. Brandi Chastain
Position: Defender
International Caps: 192, Goals: 30
Has there ever been a more iconic moment in women’s moment than the winner scored by Brandi Chastain in the 1999 World Cup final? I don’t think so.
Chastain’s successful shootout goal not only clinched the championship for the United States but also sparked an iconic celebration. Her jersey-twirling moment (often imitated but never duplicated), not only made sports bras famous but became a symbol of female empowerment.
Beyond this historic moment, Chastain’s career is a testament to her consistent excellence. She recorded 30 goals over 192 national team caps from 1988 to 2004 as a defensive player. Chastain also played a pivotal role on three World Cup teams, winning two titles, and earned a couple of Olympic gold medals.
Her impact clearly extends far beyond the field. Chastain’s iconic celebration and her journey have inspired countless young girls to pursue their dreams in soccer.
9. Joy Fawcett
Position: Defender
International Caps: 241, Goals: 27
Joy Fawcett stands as a true pioneer and enduring presence in the history of American women’s soccer. From 1987 to 2004, Fawcett was a stalwart on the backline for the U.S. women’s national team. Her 241 caps place her among the top 10 all-time with most appearances.
Remarkably, she also netted 27 goals, making her one of the highest-scoring defenders in the national team’s history.
Fawcett’s enduring legacy is made more prominent by her participation in several major tournaments. She played every minute of the 1995, 1999, and 2003 World Cups, as well as the 1996 and 2000 Olympics. Her contributions were pivotal, including the game-winning goal in the 1999 World Cup quarterfinals against Germany and a crucial penalty kick in the famous World Cup final shootout against China.
Recognized for her remarkable career, Fawcett earned a well-deserved place in the National Soccer Hall of Fame. Beyond her contributions on the field, she has played a vital role in shaping the landscape of women’s soccer. Fawcett was instrumental in the creation of the Women’s United Soccer Association, the world’s first women’s professional league.
10. Julie Foudy
Position: Midfielder
International Caps: 273, Goals: 52
Julie Foudy is an iconic figure and unwavering ambassador for women’s soccer. She has done her part through her contributions on the field, in the broadcast arena, and as a global advocate for the sport.
From 1988 to 2004, Foudy was a central figure in the U.S. women’s national team, earning a reputation as one of the first celebrity-like “stars.” Her hard-nosed and feisty style of play endeared her to fans, and she played a crucial role in the team’s success.
Foudy achieved captain status in the late 1990s, guiding the team through four World Cups (1991, 1995, 1999, 2003) and three Olympic Summer Games (1996, 2000, ’04). Foudy’s 273 caps ranks fifth in U.S. history and her 55 career assists places her among the top 10.
Beyond her on-field accomplishments, Foudy’s impact extends into leadership and advocacy. From 2000 to 2002, she served as the president of the Women’s Sports Foundation and promoted women’s sports at a broader level. In 2006, Foudy also co-founded the Julie Foudy Sports Leadership Academy, an organization dedicated to developing leadership skills in teenage girls.
In recognition of her outstanding career, Foudy was rightfully inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 2007.
Thank You For Reading
I hope you enjoyed our list of the best American soccer players of all time. If you did, then do consider sharing it with fellow soccer enthusiasts. We explored the best American players of all time in both the men’s and women’s game.
There are only so many players we could fit in the top 10, and had to leave out some legends like Megan Rapinoe, Crystal Dunn, Julie Ertz, Marcelo Balboa, among others. If you feel there should be someone else who’s more deserving to be on the list, then do let us know down in the comments.
Your support and sharing of this content can help us reach a wider audience and provide valuable information to more people who share our passion for the beautiful game.
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