Jozy Altidore to be Inducted into National Soccer Hall of Fame
Toronto FC icon Jozy Altidore is set to receive a significant accolade next year, as he has been informed of his election to the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 2027. This honor marks his induction in his very first year of eligibility.
Throughout his illustrious career, Altidore achieved remarkable milestones. The former U.S. Men’s National Team striker represented the United States in two World Cups and tallied 42 goals across 115 international caps, which places him third on the all-time goalscoring list for the national team.
At the club level, Altidore played an instrumental role in Toronto FC’s rise as an MLS powerhouse. Notably, in 2017, he scored the opening goal in the MLS Cup final, contributing to a historic season for TFC.
During that remarkable year, Altidore helped Toronto FC secure the domestic treble, winning the Canadian Championship, the MLS Supporters’ Shield for the best regular-season record, and the MLS Cup.
Altidore will officially be inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame on April 17, in Frisco, Texas.
Jozy Altidore Shares Emotional Reaction to Hall of Fame Election
The illustrious Jozy Altidore expressed his heartfelt reaction to being elected into the National Soccer Hall of Fame.
At 37 years old, Altidore was filled with emotion as he shared the moment with his family, who were present when he received the news.
“It feels unbelievable. I never expected this [National Soccer Hall of Fame election]. And to have this moment with my family and my son, and everybody close to me, was amazing. I’m just so thankful to all the people that voted, all the fans for their support over so many years. It’s an incredible feeling,” Altidore stated during an interview with the Hall of Fame.
He further reflected on his career by saying, “[My reaction to watching highlights from my career was] Time flies. It feels like yesterday where I just started and to see some of those images from over 20 years ago, but it’s beautiful. It’s beautiful to see the journey, it’s beautiful to see how you’ve changed as a person, how you’ve grown. And I’m just so grateful that I was able to play so many years.”
Altidore Prepares for Hall of Fame Speech
Altidore also spoke about his upcoming speech at the National Soccer Hall of Fame induction ceremony, noting that he anticipates he will be emotional.
“I don’t know how I’m going to do it, to be honest, I barely made it through this. I don’t know how I’m going to do it, but again, I’m so thankful for my family. They are the driving force. They’re the reason I’m here. The sacrifice that they gave me to be able to play this game is incredible. So, to share this moment with them is incredible,” he shared with the Hall of Fame.
Altidore added, “I did not expect it. I was honored just to be amongst those names, and I figured if I’m lucky, I’ll get in at some point throughout my eligibility, but I really didn’t focus too much on it. This is an incredible surprise, incredible honor, and I’m just so grateful.”
