Top Biographies by US Soccer Players [2024 UPDATED]
The popularity of soccer in the US has been growing rapidly in the last several decades. Both women’s and men’s soccer is incredibly popular, especially among the youth. At the moment nearly 400,000 girls play soccer, compared to 50,000 in the early 1980s. The US Women’s National Team has done extraordinarily well, winning 4 World Cups. The USMNT is less successful but is steadily improving towards that goal. Telling their stories as biographies by US soccer players will create strong encouragement for future generations to feel inspired to do better and better. The World Cup in 2026, where the US is a host, together with Canada and Mexico, is a perfect opportunity to make a leap.
What are the best biographies by US soccer players?
Until the World Cup, let’s look at some of the stories of players that popularized the sport in the US and moved us closer to that goal. There have been several compelling biographies written by U.S. soccer players that offer valuable insights into their lives, careers, and the sport itself. We are excited to see which ones will one day make their way to our list of the best soccer biographies. Here are some of the best biographies by U.S. soccer players:
The Keeper: A Life of Saving Goals and Achieving Them by Tim Howard
This is an autobiography of Tim Howard, the legendary US goalkeeper. He starts his journey from his childhood struggles with Tourette’s syndrome. He ends up becoming a Premier League star and representing the United States in multiple World Cups. Howard takes readers behind the scenes, offering fascinating anecdotes and insights into the highs and lows of being a professional athlete. There is also another biography about Tim Howard, but we highly recommend the autobiography. This book paints a more authentic picture with first-hand storytelling.
Pulisic: My Journey So Far Hardcover by Todd Kortemeier
It’s hard to believe that there will be enough to write about a 23-year-old soccer player, but Pulisic has been a prodigy with still a bright future ahead of him. The book takes readers on a personal journey, sharing the challenges, triumphs, and sacrifices that shaped his path to becoming a professional player. He shares his early years playing youth soccer in Pennsylvania to his breakthrough at Borussia Dortmund and subsequent move to Chelsea FC. Pulisic offers candid insights into his development, the influence of his family, and the pressures of professional soccer. This book is an inspiring testament to Pulisic’s dedication, determination, and relentless pursuit of his dreams, making it a must-read for fans and aspiring athletes alike.
The Beckham Experiment by Grant Wahl
While not specifically a biography of David Beckham, this book delves into his arrival in Major League Soccer (MLS) and the impact he had on the league. Let us not forget the impact that Beckham had on the MLS, eventually having superstars like Leo Messi and Zlatan Ibrahimovic following his steps to come at the end of their careers in the US. Furthermore, he made the league more interesting for players in their 20s to perform at their peak, such as Obafemi Martins and Carlos Vela. Grant Wahl, a renowned sports journalist, provides a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at Beckham’s time with the LA Galaxy and the challenges he faced on and off the field.
My Story by Hope Solo
Hope Solo is synonymous with the USWNT success that they had over the years. As one of the most recognizable goalkeepers in women’s soccer, shares her life story in this autobiography. She discusses her early struggles, her successes on the field, and the controversies that surrounded her career, offering an unfiltered look into her personal and professional life. Solo’s narrative takes readers through her remarkable journey, from her childhood in a small town to becoming an Olympic gold medalist and World Cup champion. She fearlessly addresses both the triumphs and controversies in her life, offering an unfiltered perspective on her successes, struggles, and the complexities of being a high-profile athlete.
When Nobody Was Watching: My Hard-Fought Journey to the Top of the Soccer World by Carli Lloyd
In this memoir, Carli Lloyd, one of the most accomplished female soccer players in U.S. history, chronicles her path to success, including her key role in the U.S. women’s national team’s triumphs at the FIFA Women’s World Cup. She shares her dedication, determination, and the sacrifices she made along the way. Lloyd tells the stories of her relentless pursuit of excellence, the sacrifices she made, and the challenges she faced along the way. The journey was not always easy for her, and she shares her early struggles with her breakout performances on the world stage. The themes of unwavering determination and relentless work ethic shine throughout the book. This book is excellent for soccer fans, athletes, and anyone seeking inspiration to overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams.
One Life by Megan Rapinoe
This life story provides a compelling and personal account of Megan Rapinoe’s journey both on and off the soccer field. Rapinoe is one of the most prominent figures in women’s soccer. We can see her story from her childhood in a small town to becoming a World Cup champion and Olympic gold medalist. She is incredibly honest, as she delves into her experiences as an openly gay athlete and an outspoken advocate for social justice. Rapinoe’s voice echoes through as she reflects on the challenges she’s faced and the triumphs she’s achieved. The impact she’s made as a trailblazer in the sport is undeniable. The book is as important in the social aspect as it is in the soccer world. Megan was fighting multiple battles, not just the one we all saw on the pitch.
The Greatest Goal: The Autobiography of Carlos Alberto by Carlos Alberto Torres
Carlos Alberto is a Brazilian, who captained the legendary 1970 Brazilian national team that won the FIFA World Cup. He later became a U.S. citizen and contributed immensely to the development of the sport in the US. In his autobiography, he talks about his entire career, including his time playing in the North American Soccer League (NASL). NASL is the predecessor of the MLS, running from 1967 to 1985. Through his storytelling, Carlos Alberto provides valuable insights into the beautiful game, making “The Greatest Goal” a must-read for football enthusiasts and those interested in the rich history of Brazilian and American soccer.
Decision time
These biographies offer unique perspectives on the lives and careers of U.S. soccer players. They provide inspiration and insight into the world of professional soccer. We are so excited to see what the current players of USWNT and USMNT will publish in the years to come. Hopefully, many of them will have World Cup winners next to their names!
