Carli Lloyd, Chris Armas, Nick Rimando, and Mary Harvey have been elected to the U.S. National Soccer Hall of Fame, alongside former Major League Soccer executive Mark Abbott. The induction ceremony is set for May 3, marking a significant moment in American soccer history.
Carli Lloyd, a standout player renowned for her remarkable hat trick in the 2015 World Cup final against Japan, made her Hall of Fame ballot debut this year. She secured an impressive 47 out of 48 votes, translating to 97.9% approval from the player selection committee. At 42, Lloyd’s career statistics include 134 goals, ranking her third in U.S. women’s soccer history, trailing only Abby Wambach and Mia Hamm. Her accolades include two World Cup victories in 2015 and 2019 and Olympic gold medals in 2008 and 2012. Lloyd was honored as FIFA’s best women’s player in both 2015 and 2016.
Nick Rimando, who received 35 votes for 72.9% in his third year on the ballot, has seen a steady increase in support, up from 47.9% last year. The 45-year-old goalkeeper represented the U.S. in 22 international matches, including the 2013 CONCACAF Gold Cup. His 20-season career in Major League Soccer spanned teams like Miami, D.C. United, and Real Salt Lake, where he won championships and was named MVP of the 2009 final.
Mary Harvey received 23 of 24 votes, achieving a remarkable 95.8% from the veterans selection committee. At 59, she was part of the U.S. team that won the inaugural Women’s World Cup in 1991 and earned an Olympic gold medal in 1996, with a total of 27 international appearances.
Chris Armas garnered 19 votes for 79.2%, successfully breaking a tie with Tony Sanneh based on preliminary ballot screening points. The 52-year-old defender, who scored two goals in 66 international matches, faced a setback when he missed the 2002 World Cup due to an ACL injury. His professional career included stints with the LA Galaxy and Chicago Fire, along with coaching roles for teams like the New York Red Bulls and Toronto FC.
In the player voting, Chris Wondolowski ranked third with 28 votes (58.3%) in his first appearance, followed closely by Lori Chalupny and Amy Rodriguez, each receiving 27 votes (56.3%). The list continues with notable names such as Cat Reddick Whitehill and Kyle Beckerman, showcasing the depth of talent in U.S. soccer.
The veterans ballot allows for the election of one candidate with at least 50% of the votes, and a second candidate if they receive 75%. This system ensures that deserving players and contributors to the sport are recognized for their impact.
Mark Abbott, who was instrumental in the growth of Major League Soccer since its inception in 1993, received 19 of 24 votes on the builder ballot. His leadership as president and deputy commissioner from 2013 to 2022 has left a lasting legacy in American soccer.
Clive Charles ranked second on the builder ballot with 16 votes (66.7%), followed by Richard Groff with 12 votes (50%). Other notable figures included William Cox and Clark Hunt, each receiving 10 votes (41.7%), highlighting a competitive field of candidates.
