Christian Pulisic becomes Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi’s successor: Milan star beats Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal to top soccer award

After a spectacular season with Milan and a resurgence that few predicted after a bumpy stint in England, Christian Pulisic has added his name to elite company, besting global icons and rising phenoms in the process.

For the past years, the names Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe have dominated soccer’s biggest stages—and most prestigious individual honors. Now, another name has joined that exclusive conversation. After a spectacular season with Milan and a resurgence that few predicted after a bumpy stint in England, Christian Pulisic has added his name to elite company, besting global icons and rising phenoms in the process.

But what exactly did Pulisic win? And how did he surpass Barcelona’s teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal, who dazzled both domestically and internationally in 2024?

Pulisic’s 2024-25 campaign was a defining chapter in his career. The American winger made 50 appearances for AC Milan, contributing 17 goals and 12 assists across all competitions. With renewed confidence, tactical consistency, and attacking flair, Pulisic proved he could thrive in Europe outside of the Premier League spotlight.

Once criticized for his inconsistency at Chelsea, Pulisic silenced doubters in Italy, becoming a key figure in the Rossoneri’s attack. His form reignited not only his club status, but also his global recognition—especially in the eyes of American fans.

And while the 26-year-old turned down the opportunity to play for the U.S. at the 2025 Gold Cup, and even reportedly rejected an offer to join Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia, his focus on club success paid off in a big way.

Unexpected crown

The defining moment came during the 2025 ESPY Awards, hosted by comedian Shane Gillis. In a tightly contested race featuring names like Lamine Yamal, Alexia Putellas, and Aitana Bonmatí, Christian Pulisic was named Best Soccer Player—a surprise to many, considering the accomplishments of his rivals.

The ESPYs (Excellence in Sports Performance Yearly Awards), first launched in 1993, recognize standout athletes across all sports. While the awards are determined by a mix of sportswriters, executives, and ESPN personalities, fan voting plays a crucial role—which may have tipped the scales in Pulisic’s favor. With ESPN’s significant reach in the United States, American fans turned out in force for their soccer hero.

Why not Yamal?

The award is sure to spark a debate, as many believe Lamine Yamal had a more successful year. At just 17 years old, the Barcelona sensation helped Spain win the 2024 UEFA European Championship, starred in La Liga’s title race, and made a deep run in the Champions League. Since debuting in 2023, Yamal has amassed 106 senior appearances, contributing to 59 goals (25 goals, 34 assists)—a staggering tally for someone still in his teens.

Yamal is also considered a frontrunner for the Ballon d’Or, something Pulisic isn’t currently in contention for. So, how did the Milan man edge him out?

The answer likely lies in the nature of the ESPY Awards. “The fan vote carries a heavy influence, especially in categories with global appeal,” an ESPN insider noted. “American fans rally around their stars—and Pulisic’s connection to U.S. audiences gave him the edge.”

Walking Among Legends

With this win, Pulisic joins an exclusive list of soccer greats who’ve claimed the ESPY. The award, which began in 2000, has previously gone to the likes of:

• Mia Hamm (2000, 2001, 2004, 2005)
• Ronaldo Nazario (2003)
• David Beckham (2004)
• Ronaldinho (2006)
• Lionel Messi (2023)
• Kylian Mbappe (2024)
• Christian Pulisic (2025)

After a nearly two-decade hiatus, the Best Soccer Player ESPY returned in 2023—and Pulisic is now the latest name etched in its legacy.