Christian Pulisic Triumphs Over Barcelona's Lamine Yamal to Claim Prestigious Honor
Christian Pulisic claimed the Best Soccer Player honor at the 2025 ESPYS, defeating a Barcelona trio consisting of Lamine Yamal, Aitana Bonmatí and Alexia Putellas.
Pulisic delivered an outstanding season with AC Milan, netting 17 goals and providing 10 assists across 50 matches. The United States national team captain contributed to the Rossoneri's first Italian Super Cup triumph since 2016, finding the net during their remarkable 3–2 turnaround win over Inter Milan.
The 26-year-old forward is currently negotiating a contract extension with the Italian club while rejecting attractive proposals from Saudi Pro League teams. Although Pulisic enjoyed an exceptional individual campaign, AC Milan could only secure eighth position in Serie A, eliminating their chances of European competition next season.
Nevertheless, the 2025 ESPYS acknowledged Pulisic's personal achievements by presenting him with the Best Soccer Player accolade. Public voting determined the winner, and Pulisic's substantial American fanbase clearly influenced his victory.
Pulisic competed against 18-year-old Yamal, considered among the frontrunners for the 2025 Ballon d'Or. The young winger contributed to Barcelona's domestic treble under Hansi Flick's inaugural season, accumulating 18 goals and 21 assists in all tournaments.
Aitana Bonmatí, the current 2024 Women's Ballon d'Or champion, and her Barcelona colleague Alexia Putellas were also contenders for the recognition. These two stars guided the Catalans to another Liga F championship, plus the club's fifth Spanish Super Cup and 11th Copa de la Reina title.
Pulisic, however, surpassed the three Barcelona representatives to join an elite group of former and current icons who have earned the Best Soccer Player award at the ESPYS. Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi are the latest recipients, while David Beckham, Ronaldinho and Mia Hamm have previously received this distinction.
The public support for Pulisic represents positive news for the USMNT leader following criticism he faced for missing the 2025 Gold Cup to focus on recovery after an exhausting season. The Stars and Stripes reached the final of this summer's tournament, ultimately falling to Mexico in the Gold Cup championship match.