Christian Pulisic Loses U.S. Soccer Honor to USMNT Teammate

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Christian Pulisic Loses U.S. Soccer Honor to USMNT Teammate

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Sean Hartnett | Last updated Jan 14, 2026 2:38 PM ET

Christian Pulisic is enjoying a tremendous 2025-26 campaign for club and country ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, yet he wasn't nominated for the 2025 U.S. Soccer Male Player of the Year.

The 27-year-old attacker only made six USMNT appearances during the 2025 calendar year; therefore, he wasn't considered for the award.

He has netted 10 goals in 18 matches across all competitions for AC Milan.

Richards Takes Home U.S. Soccer Male Player of the Year Award

United States defender Chris Richards passes the ball during the second half at Q2 Stadium. Scott Coleman-Imagn ImagesScott Coleman-Imagn Images

Instead, Crystal Palace center-back Chris Richards scooped the 2025 award after he started in 11 of 12 matches for which he was available for the USMNT. He participated in all six matches leading to the 2025 Gold Cup Final.

Richards scored two goals during the tournament, and he earned a place in the Gold Cup Best XI. The United States lost to Mexico 2-1 in the final.

"It means a lot to me to join a very prestigious list of players," Richards said. "This has been a big year, and we have an even bigger year coming up. This shows how well we’ve done as a team and the momentum we are building towards the World Cup."

Richards played a key role in Crystal Palace's 2025 FA Cup final victory over Manchester City. He made 32 total appearances in all competitions for the London club.

Defender Max Arfsten, defender Alex Freeman, goalkeeper Matt Freese and midfielder Malik Tillman were among this year's nominees. Richards won with 48.6 percent of the vote, finishing ahead of Tillman (21.7 percent) and Freeman (13 percent).

Pulisic previously won the award four times.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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