Chris Richards, the newly crowned U.S. Soccer Male Player of the Year for 2025, has solidified his place as a key figure for both Crystal Palace in the English Premier League and the United States Men's National Team (USMNT). The 25-year-old defender's journey from Alabama to the pinnacle of American soccer is a testament to his dedication and skill.
Born Christopher Jeffrey Richards on March 28, 2000, in Birmingham, Alabama, Richards' early life revolved around sports. While he excelled in basketball and track, his passion for soccer, possibly influenced by his father's basketball career overseas, ultimately prevailed. He honed his skills with Hoover Soccer Club and Birmingham United Soccer Association, securing multiple state championships. Despite an initial setback when he was cut from an FC Dallas Academy trial in 2016, Richards persevered, joining Texans SC in Houston before finally landing a spot with the FC Dallas Academy in 2017.
Richards' professional career began with FC Dallas, signing a homegrown player contract in April 2018. However, his talent quickly attracted international attention, and he soon found himself on loan with Bayern Munich in July 2018. The move became permanent in January 2019 for a reported $1.5 million. He progressed through Bayern's youth ranks, making his professional debut with Bayern Munich II in August 2019. He later debuted in the Bundesliga in June 2020 and the Champions League in November 2020.
Seeking more consistent playing time, Richards embarked on loan spells with 1899 Hoffenheim during the 2021-22 season. His performances in the Bundesliga showcased his defensive prowess and versatility, attracting the attention of Crystal Palace. In July 2022, Richards officially joined the Premier League club on a five-year contract for a €12 million fee. After a somewhat slow start, Richards became a crucial part of Crystal Palace's defense, demonstrating his ability as a center-back and even filling in as a defensive midfielder. In the 2024/25 season, Richards played every minute of every FA Cup tie, helping Palace secure their first major trophy with a 1-0 victory against Manchester City in the final. He also became the second American to win an FA Cup final, after Tim Howard.
Richards' international career has also been on the rise. He represented the United States at the U-20 level, winning the CONCACAF U-20 Championship in 2018. He received his first call-up to the senior USMNT in November 2020 and made his debut against Panama. A key moment arrived in June 2023 when he scored his first international goal in the CONCACAF Nations League final against Canada, helping the USMNT secure the title. He also scored in the 2025 Gold Cup Final against Mexico. Richards has played in 35 matches for the USMNT, scoring three goals. His strong performances led to him being named to the 2025 Gold Cup Best XI.
Richards' strengths lie in his imposing presence, aerial ability, tackling, and improving distribution skills. He is known for his composure and reading of the game, as well as his versatility in different defensive roles. While some observers note that his on-ball abilities are still developing, his defensive contributions are consistently praised.
Off the field, Richards is known as "Texas". He enjoys music, Netflix, and spending time with his dog, Zoe.
As Chris Richards continues his career with Crystal Palace and the USMNT, he carries the hopes of a nation and the pride of his hometown. His recent U.S. Soccer Male Player of the Year award is a recognition of his achievements and a sign of even greater things to come. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, Richards is expected to be a cornerstone of the USMNT defense, bringing his talent and determination to the world's biggest stage.
