Greatest Soccer Players in the USA: 10 Legendary Americans

Soccer in the United States has grown from humble roots to a powerhouse on the global stage. Today’s USA soccer history is defined by iconic American footballers on both the men’s (USMNT) and women’s (USWNT) sides. Four Women’s World Cup titles and record Olympic medals testify to the USA’s legendary players. On the men’s side, historic runs like the 2002 World Cup quarterfinal and multiple Gold Cup wins have made USMNT legends out of players like Clint Dempsey and Landon Donovan. The following top American soccer players combine stats, leadership and memorable moments to earn their place among the Greatest Soccer Players in the USA.

Table of Contents

Key highlights of USA soccer history include:

USMNT golden moments: 2002 World Cup quarterfinal; seven CONCACAF Gold Cups (U.S. titles).
USWNT dominance: Four FIFA World Cup championships (1991, 1999, 2015, 2019) and four Olympic gold medals.
All-time records: Mia Hamm’s 158 goals and Abby Wambach’s 184 goals (USA’s top scorer).
USA legends: Players who broke barriers – from Mia Hamm inspiring a generation, to Christian Pulisic winning Europe’s Champions League – have become household names.

The list below profiles the 10 greatest soccer players in the USA, mixing USMNT heroes and USWNT stars. Each sub-section highlights career achievements, key stats, and why these players are iconic in American soccer.

USA Men’s Soccer Legends (Top 5)

Image: US men’s national soccer team in training on the field.

Landon Donovan (Attacking Midfielder)

Landon Donovan is often called the face of U.S. soccer. Over a 14-year career, Donovan racked up 157 caps and 57 goals for the USMNT, making him the team’s joint all-time top scorer (tied with Clint Dempsey) and its all-time assist leader with 58. He represented the USA in three World Cups and won the 2002 CONCACAF Gold Cup. In MLS, Donovan won a record six MLS Cups with San Jose Earthquakes and LA Galaxy, and he holds the league record for assists (136). His crowning international moment came in 2002, scoring against Mexico in a famous 2–0 Round of 16 win.

Joint USMNT all-time top scorer (57 goals) and all-time assist leader (58).
4× CONCACAF Gold Cup champion (2002, 2005, 2007, 2013) and key figure in the USA’s 2002 World Cup run.
Record-holder: Six MLS Cups (most in league history) and 136 MLS assists.
FIFA U-17 World Championship Best Player (Golden Ball, 1999) and MLS MVP (2004).

Donovan’s vision and clutch scoring helped raise the profile of soccer in the USA. Even after retiring, he remains a symbol of American soccer success.

Clint Dempsey (Forward)

Clint Dempsey brought grit and flair to the USMNT from 2004 to 2017. With 142 caps and 57 goals, Dempsey is joint top scorer in USMNT history. Notably, he reached 57 goals in 17 fewer games than Donovan. Dempsey was the first American to score in three different FIFA World Cups (2006, 2010, 2014), including a record-fast goal in the 2014 Brazil World Cup. He starred in three Gold Cup titles (2005, 2007, 2017), and his 57th goal came from a free kick that secured the 2017 Gold Cup for the USA.

Joint USMNT top scorer (57 goals) and USA’s first player to score in three World Cups.
3× CONCACAF Gold Cup champion (2005, 2007, 2017); scored winning goal in 2017 semifinal to tie Donovan’s record.
Starred in England’s Premier League with Fulham (60 goals) and Tottenham, becoming a fan favorite abroad.
Known for spectacular goals (e.g., 2010 Europa League chip vs Juventus) and leadership as US captain in 2014.

Dempsey’s work ethic and knack for big goals made him an American soccer icon. He transformed the US midfield and attacking play, inspiring future generations.

Tim Howard (Goalkeeper)

Tim Howard is widely regarded as the greatest American goalkeeper. Over 15 years with the USMNT, he earned 121 caps – more than any other U.S. goalie. Howard won two Olympic qualifiers and three Gold Cups, and he was the starting keeper in three World Cups (2006, 2010, 2014). His international heroics include a stunning 2–1 victory over Mexico in the 2007 Gold Cup final with a last-minute save. In 2014, Howard set a World Cup record with 15 saves in one match against Belgium, nearly propelling the USA to the quarterfinals.

Most-capped US goalkeeper (121 caps) and key starter for 2010 and 2014 World Cups.
World Cup record: 15 saves in the USA’s 2014 Round of 16 match vs. Belgium.
Winner of 3 CONCACAF Gold Cups (2005, 2007, 2013) and 2 CONCACAF Cups (2015, 2017).
Long club career in England’s Premier League (Manchester United, Everton) and MLS (Colorado Rapids).

Howard’s athleticism and longevity set the standard for American keepers. His nickname, “The Wall,” reflects how many goals he prevented on the world’s biggest stage.

Christian Pulisic (Winger/Forward)

Christian Pulisic (nicknamed “Captain America”) is the current face of US soccer. By age 25 he had already achieved milestones no American had before. Pulisic has captained the USMNT and won CONCACAF Nations League titles in 2019–20 and 2022–23, earning Best Player honors in the 2022–23 campaign. Internationally he has over 60 caps and has scored key goals in World Cup qualifying. At club level, Pulisic won the UEFA Champions League with Chelsea in 2021 – the first American to do so – and became AC Milan’s record-setting American goal scorer in Serie A. He has been voted U.S. Soccer’s Male Player of the Year four times (tying Donovan’s record).

Youngest USA captain (age 20) and 4× U.S. Soccer Male Player of the Year (2017, 2018, 2021, 2023).
Won UEFA Champions League (2021) and FA Cup (2018) with Chelsea, and key player at AC Milan in Serie A.
Champions League record: Youngest American to score a hat-trick (for Chelsea) and first American to win the title.
As of 2023, Nations League titles and a strong 2023–24 season (6 league goals by Jan 2024).

Pulisic’s success abroad has broken barriers for U.S. players. His flair and skill on the wing continue to inspire fans, making him arguably the best American soccer player today.

Brian McBride (Forward)

Brian McBride was a pioneer for Americans in Europe. McBride earned 95 caps and scored 30 goals for the USMNT from 1993–2006. He was a three-time World Cup player (1998, 2002, 2006) and served as U.S. captain in 2002. McBride scored twice in a World Cup match (2002 vs. Poland) and was known for his aerial prowess – famously heading the USA’s goal in the 2002 quarterfinal vs. Germany. In club soccer, McBride had a 10-year stint at Fulham (England), becoming a fan favorite and captaining the team. He also played in MLS with Chicago Fire and Columbus Crew, winning an MLS Cup (2006) and a U.S. Open Cup (2000).

95 caps, 30 goals for the USMNT, including a crucial goal in the 2002 World Cup quarterfinals.
First American to score in multiple World Cups, tallying goals in 1998 (1 goal) and 2002 (2 goals).
Club legend at Fulham (England) with over 200 appearances; won 2006 MLS Cup with Chicago Fire.
Known as a hard-working leader and one of the most respected American forwards of his era.

Though McBride’s stats aren’t as gaudy as others, his impact was immense. His professionalism and success abroad helped pave the way for future US forwards in top leagues.

USA Women’s Soccer Legends (Top 5)

Image: US women’s national soccer team players acknowledging fans after a match.

Mia Hamm (Forward)

Mia Hamm is a global soccer icon. She earned 275 caps and scored 158 goals for the USWNT – a record at the time of her 2004 retirement. Hamm won two FIFA Women’s World Cups (1991, 1999) and two Olympic gold medals (1996, 2004). In 1999 she scored five goals in a single World Cup match against Nigeria, showcasing her scoring prowess. Hamm was FIFA World Player of the Year twice (2001, 2002) and inspired a generation of female athletes.

275 caps, 158 goals for USA, making her the country’s all-time leading scorer until 2013.
2× World Cup champion (1991, 1999) and 2× Olympic gold medalist (1996, 2004).
FIFA World Player of the Year (2001, 2002) and member of FIFA’s 100 greatest players list.
Still holds the USWNT record with 144 assists, underlining her playmaking as well as scoring.

Hamm’s speed, skill and sportsmanship made her a worldwide ambassador for soccer. Her No. 9 jersey became one of the best-selling women’s jerseys ever, and she co-founded the Women’s United Soccer Association, the first pro women’s league in the U.S.

Abby Wambach (Forward)

Abby Wambach is America’s most prolific scorer. She concluded her career with 255 caps and a record 184 goals for the USWNT. Wambach’s trademark headers powered the USA to back-to-back FIFA World Cup glory in 2015 and 2019, and two Olympic gold medals (2004, 2012). She scored 123 goals with her head alone. Wambach was FIFA World Player of the Year in 2012 and a six-time U.S. Soccer Female Athlete of the Year. Her extra-time “shirt-swap” celebration after scoring a late goal in the 2011 World Cup quarterfinal versus Brazil became an iconic moment in sports history.

255 caps, 184 goals – the USWNT’s all-time leading scorer and second-highest in international soccer history.
2× World Cup champion (2015, 2019) and 2× Olympic gold medalist (2004, 2012).
FIFA Player of the Year (2012) and six-time US Soccer Female Athlete of the Year (record).
First athlete to have her own Barbie doll and appeared on magazine covers, raising the profile of women’s soccer.

Wambach’s clutch performances (such as the winning goal in the 2012 Olympic semifinal vs. Canada) and personality made her an emblem of American sports ambition. She remains a role model for female athletes everywhere.

Carli Lloyd (Midfielder)

Carli Lloyd is remembered for her World Cup heroics and consistency. She earned 316 caps and 134 goals for the USWNT, ranking her second in caps and third in goals for the team. Lloyd scored the fastest hat trick in World Cup history (17 minutes) in the 2015 final against Japan, leading the USA to a 5–2 victory. She won two World Cups (2015, 2019) and three Olympic medals (gold in 2008, silver in 2012 & 2021). Lloyd was FIFA Player of the Year twice (2015, 2016) and is the only player to earn two FIFA Women’s World Cup final MVP awards.

316 caps, 134 goals – second-most appearances and one of top scorers in USWNT history.
2× World Cup champion (2015 – where she scored 3 in final, 2019) and 2× FIFA World Cup Final MVP.
FIFA Player of the Year (2015, 2016) and key leader in three Olympic tournaments (gold in 2008).
Holds record for fastest World Cup hat trick (2015 Final) and most goals in a single World Cup match (3 in 2015 Final).

Lloyd’s clutch scoring and leadership set her apart. A gritty midfielder with a lightning shot, she earned Hall of Fame induction in 2025 for her contributions to U.S. soccer.

Megan Rapinoe (Winger)

Megan Rapinoe is one of the USWNT’s most decorated stars. She has 203 caps and 63 goals. Rapinoe won two World Cups (2015, 2019) and an Olympic gold (2012). In the 2019 World Cup she won both the Golden Ball (best player) and Golden Boot (6 goals), delivering the decisive penalty in the final. Rapinoe has also championed social issues off the pitch.

2× World Cup champion (2015, 2019) and Olympic gold medalist (2012).
2019 World Cup Golden Ball & Golden Boot winner (6 goals, 3 assists).
Over 203 caps, top-10 in USWNT history for both goals and assists.
First American (man or woman) with a World Cup goal and Olympic gold (achieved in 2012).

Rapinoe’s precision on free kicks and her clutch World Cup final penalty have made her a legend. Her influence continues both in sports and society, solidifying her place among USA’s all-time greats.

Alex Morgan (Forward)

Alex Morgan is a current-generation superstar. She has 224 caps and 123 goals for the USWNT. Morgan scored the winning goal in the 2012 Olympic final (giving the USA gold) and helped win the 2015 World Cup (USA’s first since 1999). In the 2019 World Cup she won the Silver Boot (6 goals, 3 assists). Morgan’s speed and finishing make her one of the most feared forwards in the women’s game.

224 caps, 123 goals – among the USA’s all-time top scorers.
2012 Olympic gold medalist and 2015 World Cup champion. Silver Boot at 2019 World Cup (6 goals).
Two-time U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year (2012, 2018) and consistent NWSL champion (2013, 2016).
Known for tying US record with five goals in a 2019 World Cup match vs. Thailand.

Still active on the national team, Morgan continues to score in big moments. As a role model and goal-scorer, she upholds the legacy of USA soccer on the world stage.

Conclusion: Greatest Soccer Players in the USA

From USMNT legends like Landon Donovan and Clint Dempsey to USWNT stars like Mia Hamm and Megan Rapinoe, these ten players represent the pinnacle of American soccer. Each has left an indelible mark: breaking scoring records, winning championships, and inspiring fans. Together, they tell the story of USA soccer’s rise – a history of iconic American footballers pushing the sport forward. Whether it’s Pulisic winning Europe’s biggest trophy, or Hamm igniting a generation with her dazzling play, the greatest soccer players in the USA share a legacy of excellence and passion.

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FAQs

Q: Who is considered the greatest soccer player from the USA? A: Many point to Landon Donovan or Clint Dempsey for the men’s side, and Mia Hamm or Abby Wambach for the women’s side. Currently, Christian Pulisic is often named the top American player. All of the above have achieved incredible records for the USMNT or USWNT.

Q: Which US player has the most international goals? A: Abby Wambach holds the record with 184 goals for the USWNT. She surpassed Mia Hamm (158 goals) in 2013. Wambach’s total is second only to Canada’s Christine Sinclair (186) in international football.

Q: What is the USA soccer team’s greatest achievement? A: The USWNT has won four FIFA Women’s World Cups (1991, 1999, 2015, 2019), the most of any nation. The USMNT’s best finish was a World Cup quarterfinal (1930, 2002). The U.S. has also won multiple Olympic medals (the women’s team won gold in 1996, 2004, 2008, 2012).

Q: Who is the best American player right now? A: As of 2025, Christian Pulisic is widely viewed as the best current USMNT player, having led the USA to CONCACAF Nations League titles and won the Champions League with Chelsea. On the women’s side, players like Alex Morgan and Megan Rapinoe remain top stars.

Q: Why are these 10 players special? A: Each player on this list set records or won big titles for the USA. For example, Donovan and Dempsey are tied as top men’s goal scorers, Hamm and Wambach led the women to World Cup and Olympic gold, and others like Howard and Lloyd set World Cup records. Their achievements and longevity define the greatest soccer players in the USA.