Pulisic equals Donovan, wins U.S. Soccer Male Player of the Year for fourth time

In a stellar 2023 performance wearing the USMNT jersey, Christian Pulisic, a key player for the U.S. national team, clinched the title of Player of the Year in US Soccer’s annual awards. This accolade is bestowed upon the best players across various categories within the federation, recognising their contributions throughout the calendar year.

On Thursday, US Soccer revealed the results of the annual vote for U.S. Player of the Year, with Christian Pulisic emerging as the victor once again, securing 53% of the votes. Pulisic outshone fellow Team USA players like Yunus Musah, Ricardo Pepi, Folarin Balogun, and Matt Turner to claim the prestigious individual award.

What is Landon Donovan’s US Soccer Player of the Year record?

With this latest honor as the US Soccer Men’s Player of the Year, Christian Pulisic adds a fourth award to his illustrious career, having previously won in 2017, 2019, and 2021.

Remarkably, Pulisic now shares the record for the most Player of the Year awards by US Soccer with Landon Donovan. Donovan, a legendary figure in the History of USMNT and LA Galaxy, achieved this feat by winning the recognition in 2003, 2004, 2009, and 2010.

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Pulisic labels Landon ‘a legend’

Pulisic expressed his happiness in matching a record held by Landon Donovan, emphasising that it signifies his success for the national team: “If you find yourself alongside Landon in anything related to the National Team, you’re certainly doing something right. He’s a legend, and I’ve always looked up to him. Being part of that conversation is something I’m truly grateful for. I aspire to continue pushing myself, and I sincerely hope this won’t be the last US Soccer Player of the Year award,” Pulisic shared.

In achieving this milestone, Pulisic also distinguishes himself from another USMNT legend, breaking the tie with Clint Dempsey, who also had three Player of the Year awards. This accomplishment reignites discussions about whether the AC Milan player has now secured a position in the top three players in the History of the U.S. national team.

A formidable 2023 for Captain America

In 2023, Pulisic delivered some of his most remarkable performances while representing the USMNT. He demonstrated his form by scoring 6 goals and providing 3 assists in 8 Games, playing a pivotal role in the team’s success and securing the CONCACAF Nations League title.

Simultaneously, at club level, ‘Captain America’ appears to have returned to top form. With 7 goals and 6 assists for Milan, he is on track for what could be considered his best season in Europe in recent years, surpassing his achievements during his time at Chelsea. He recently won the Serie A Player of the Month award for December, highlighting his positive form.