Alex Freeman is a rising star in American soccer, currently playing as a defender for Major League Soccer (MLS) club Orlando City and the United States national team. At 20 years old, Freeman is making a name for himself, fueled by a "secret love for soccer" that ultimately led him to choose "fútbol over football".
Born on August 9, 2004, in Baltimore, Maryland, Alex Freeman's journey to professional soccer has been unique. Despite his father's successful NFL career, Alex found himself drawn to soccer. He honed his skills at Weston FC Academy before joining the Orlando City Academy in 2020. His mother, Rochelle, though initially hesitant due to the distance and the COVID-19 pandemic, supported his decision to join Orlando City's academy. He debuted for Orlando City B in MLS Next Pro on March 26, 2022, and made his first appearance for the senior team in MLS on April 29, 2023.
Freeman's breakout season in 2025 has been remarkable. He has started in 16 of 17 matches for Orlando City, contributing four goals and one assist, making him the highest-scoring defender in the MLS this year. His outstanding performance earned him a spot in the 2025 MLS All-Star Game, making him the youngest player ever selected for the exhibition match.
His talent has also been recognized on the international stage. Freeman received his first call-up to the United States national team in May 2025, ahead of matches against Turkey and Switzerland. He expressed surprise at the call-up but acknowledged it as a result of his hard work. He was then selected for the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup, starting in all three group stage matches and helping the U.S. secure wins over Trinidad and Tobago, Saudi Arabia, and Haiti.
Freeman's father, Antonio Freeman, is a former professional football player who played as a wide receiver for nine seasons in the NFL, winning Super Bowl XXXI with the Green Bay Packers in 1997. Antonio has been a constant source of support for Alex, who credits his father with instilling in him the training, eating, and lifestyle habits of a professional athlete. Alex recalls watching his father's famous game-winning catch in overtime on Monday Night Football, a moment that he greatly admires. Despite his father's football legacy, Alex chose to forge his own path in soccer. According to Alex's mother, Alex "didn't want to play football and he didn't want to tell his dad that... He just wanted to make his own lane and his own path".
Looking ahead, Alex Freeman has set his sights on the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Although he faces competition for a roster spot from other talented right-backs such as Sergiño Dest and Joe Scally, Freeman's confidence and determination remain high. He aims to impress U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino and earn his trust through hard work and dedication. With his talent, work ethic, and the support of his family, Alex Freeman is poised to make a significant impact on the world of soccer.
