American soccer players are now household names on the global scene, something virtually unfathomable just 25 years ago
Soccer in America wasn't born in 1994 but, at the very least, it was reborn. A new era began when the World Cup came to the United States. For the first time ever, American soccer was in the global limelight and, for the first time ever, the sport felt relevant on a broader scale.
The U.S. is still benefitting from the impact of that World Cup, particularly as the country prepares for a 2026 return. That moment back in 1994 sparked a renaissance, as the U.S. men's national team moved into the new millennium with more momentum than ever before.
Throughout the start of the 21st century, American soccer has seen players continue to raise their level. Playing in Europe was once unheard of; now, there are stars competing for league titles and Champions League crowns on a regular basis. It's an incredible rise, one headlined by countless trailblazers. From Landon Donovan and Clint Dempsey to Christian Pulisic and Tyler Adams, American players are now household names, something almost unfathomable just a few decades ago.
So, as we approach the end of the first quarter of the 21st century, GOAL is on hand to rank the top 25…
Getty Images Sport25Stu Holden
Man, this still makes you wonder "what if?"
Holden was among the most talented players to ever put on a USMNT shirt, but injuries severely derailed his career. During his time, though, he still featured at two Gold Cups, an Olympic tournament and the 2010 World Cup, amassing 25 caps.
He would have had way more if not for those injuries but anyone who watched him play knows that Holden deserves a place on this list.
AdvertisementGetty24Eddie Johnson
One doesn't find himself among the USMNT's top 10 goalscorers by accident but, even so, Johnson remains criminally underrated.
After making his debut in 2004, Johnson went on to score 19 goals in his USMNT career, leaving him ninth all-time. In addition to his achievements on the senior level, he also won the Golden Boot at the 2003 World Youth Championship, a tournament that included the likes of the legendary Andres Iniesta.
He played at the 2006 World Cup and was one of the last cuts in 2010 but, even after, Johnson remained a key scorer, scoring the game-winner against Mexico that helped send the U.S. to Brazil in 2014.
Getty Images Sport23Fabian Johnson
His USMNT career didn't feel particularly long but, while he was around, Johnson added so much quality to the USMNT.
After coming up through Germany's youth system, Johnson made the switch to the USMNT in 2001 and was immediately tossed into the USMNT XI. He started each of the USMNT's four matches at the 2014 World Cup, showcasing his ability from a wide position.
Able to play on either side of the field, Johnson's career isn't loaded with accolades but the eye test tells you how good he was.
Getty Images Sport22Geoff Cameron
A Swiss Army Knife of a defender and midfielder, Cameron was a vital piece of the Jurgen Klinsmann era, featuring in any number of positions depending on what the team needed. Capable of playing as a fullback, center back or central midfielder, Cameron was asked to do it all.
He was the USMNT's starting center back for the first two games of the 2014 World Cup, but then moved to the midfield for the USMNT's Round of 16 clash with Belgium. He then anchored the defense during the USMNT's Copa America Centenario run, starring alongside John Brooks.
In total, Cameron earned 55 caps during a seven-year run, one which saw him relied upon heavily by his coach.