Megan Rapinoe and David Beckham Enter National Soccer Hall of Fame

Rapinoe and US Legends Honored

Megan Rapinoe, Jozy Altidore, and Julie Ertz have been elected to the National Soccer Hall of Fame. The former United States national team stars were chosen alongside global icon David Beckham.

The official induction ceremony is set for April 16 in Plano, Texas. Rapinoe entered the Hall of Fame in her first year of eligibility. Her family, friends, and fans surprised her with the news after she landed at Seattle Tacoma International Airport.

Rapinoe won two Women's World Cup titles, an Olympic gold medal, and the 2019 Ballon d'Or. She also received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2022. She retired from the national team in 2023 with 63 goals and 73 assists in 203 appearances. She played for Seattle Reign FC in the NWSL from 2013 until her retirement.

Rapinoe noted that being recognized alongside great teammates means she was part of successful teams, adding that the honor is very special.

Altidore and Ertz Secure Hall Spots

Jozy Altidore earned his place in the Hall of Fame after a great international career. The forward played in two World Cups and scored 42 goals in 115 matches for the national team, placing him third in U.S. history. He also scored the winning goal for Toronto FC in the 2017 MLS Cup championship.

Julie Ertz joined them after being considered among the best defensive midfielders before her 2023 retirement. Ertz played in three Women's World Cups and won the U.S. Soccer Player of the Year award twice. She played for Chicago Red Stars from 2014 to 2021 before a short stint with Angel City FC in 2023.

Beckham, Tatu, and Osiander Voted In

David Beckham entered through the veteran ballot. Famous for winning six Premier League titles with Manchester United, Beckham helped grow American soccer when he joined the LA Galaxy in 2007. He scored 18 goals in 98 appearances for the Galaxy and won back to back titles. He exercised his option to buy an MLS expansion team in 2014, and Inter Miami CF joined the league in 2020.

Brazilian forward Tatu was also elected on the veteran ballot after scoring 857 regular season goals over a 21 year indoor soccer career. He is just the third indoor player to earn this honor.

Former U.S. national team coach Lothar Osiander was elected on the builder ballot. He coached the senior team from 1986 to 1988, the Under 23 team from 1988 to 1992, and also led the San Jose Clash and LA Galaxy.