Landon Donovan
Greatest U.S. Men's National Team soccer player, 156 international caps
Landon Donovan (born March 4, 1982) is an American professional soccer player and coach who is widely considered the greatest player in U.S. Men's National Team (USMNT) history. Born in Ontario, California, Donovan burst onto the international scene in the late 1990s and became a cornerstone of American soccer for nearly two decades. He represented the United States in four FIFA World Cups (2002, 2006, 2010, 2014), winning 156 caps and scoring 57 goals—both records for the USMNT at the time of his retirement. At club level, Donovan achieved tremendous success in Major League Soccer, winning two MLS Cups with the San Jose Earthquakes and LA Galaxy, and earning multiple MLS MVP awards. His peak years coincided with an unprecedented growth period for soccer in the United States. Beyond his on-field achievements, Donovan's leadership, versatility, and consistency elevated the profile of American soccer globally. He finished his career with stints in Europe and Mexico, maintaining his competitive edge throughout his 20-year professional career. Today, Donovan remains an ambassador for the sport, working as a coach and analyst.
Athlete
American
1982
Thinking about the name
Landon
English origin
“Derived from Old English meaning 'long hill' or 'from the long valley,' Landon rose dramatically in popularity from the 1990s onward as part of the -aden naming revolution. The name evokes nature and open spaces while maintaining modern, accessible appeal, striking a balance between contemporary trends and timeless geography.”