Jozy Altidore

Josmer Volmy "Jozy" Altidore is an American former professional soccer player who established himself as one of the most prolific strikers in United States history. Born in Livingston, New Jersey, and raised in Boca Raton, Florida, he transitioned from a high school phenom to a global athlete with remarkable speed. His career spanned over a decade of elite competition across North America and Europe, culminating in a historic MLS Cup victory and a successful pivot into media and business ownership.

Altidore retired from professional play in 2021 after earning 115 caps for the U.S. Men's National Team and scoring 42 international goals. He currently works as a lead analyst for Telemundo and serves as an investor in a new Major League Soccer franchise project in Oklahoma City alongside NBA star Russell Westbrook. [edit]

Although born in Livingston, New Jersey, Jozy Altidore spent his formative years in Boca Raton, Florida, where he attended St. Andrew's Episcopal School. The young striker quickly developed a reputation for his physical dominance and explosive speed on the pitch. During his high school career, he led the Panthers to state championships while garnering national attention as a top-tier prospect. His talent was so evident that scouts began tracking him before he even turned eighteen.

In 2005, Altidore represented the United States at the FIFA U-17 World Championship, showcasing his abilities on the international stage. By 2006, he had made the decision to skip college and enter the professional ranks directly. That year, the MetroStars (now the New York Red Bulls) selected him first overall in the MLS SuperDraft at just 16 years old. This move made him the youngest player ever to sign a contract with Major League Soccer at the time, instantly marking him as a generational talent ready to take on the world. [edit]

Altidore's professional debut came in 2006 with the New York Red Bulls, where he scored four goals in his rookie season. His rapid ascent caught the eye of European clubs, leading to a landmark $10 million transfer to Spanish side Villarreal in 2008. To secure playing time, he spent the next few years on loan stints with Xerez, Hull City, and Bursaspor. In 2011, he joined AZ Alkmaar in the Netherlands, where he achieved one of the most significant milestones for an American player in history.

During the 2012–13 season with AZ Alkmaar, Altidore scored 24 goals in a single European club campaign, surpassing Clint Dempsey's previous record. This feat cemented his status as a prolific scorer capable of dominating defenses abroad. He later signed with Sunderland in the English Premier League before returning to North America. His return to MLS with Toronto FC marked the peak of his domestic success. He was instrumental in winning the 2017 MLS Cup and the Supporters' Shield, earning MVP honors after scoring two goals in the final against the Portland Timbers. Following his retirement in 2021, he transitioned into broadcasting and business ventures. [edit]

Altidore projects an image of a hard-working, physically imposing striker who successfully bridged the gap between MLS and the global stage. Known for his leadership on the field, teammates and fans alike refer to him affectionately as "J.A." or "The Captain." His transition to media has been seamless, positioning him as a respected voice in soccer analysis. He maintains a direct and engaging social media presence, often sharing insights on training, business ventures, and the evolution of American soccer. [edit]

iFANN has evaluated Jozy Altidore but does not currently place him in the published Global Top 1,000 rankings. His fame is deeply rooted in his historic achievements rather than viral celebrity status. Within the USMNT community, he is revered as a trailblazer who proved American players could dominate in Europe. Fans often chant his name during international matches, and there are persistent campaigns urging his induction into the Hall of Fame. While no formal fandom name exists, his supporters are highly organized, viewing his career as a blueprint for future American strikers. [edit]

Altidore holds the distinction of being the youngest player to be drafted first overall in MLS history when selected by the MetroStars in 2006. Despite standing 6 feet 1 inch tall, he possessed exceptional technical skill and ball control, traits often rare for players of his stature in the American system. He is also fluent in Spanish, which facilitated his seamless integration into European leagues and earned him deep respect in Mexican soccer culture. A widely retold story among fans involves his unwavering confidence ahead of the 2026 World Cup, where he famously declared, "I'm that crazy guy," referring to his belief that the USA could win the tournament despite the odds. [edit]

Jozy Altidore comes from a close-knit family that supported his athletic ambitions from a young age. He resides in Florida with his wife, Sloane Stephens, a renowned professional tennis player. The couple met around 2016, became engaged in 2017, and married shortly thereafter. Their relationship is a fixture in both the soccer and tennis worlds, often seen supporting each other at major sporting events. While they have not publicly disclosed having children together, their partnership remains strong and stable as of 2026. [edit]

Sloane Stephens, Russell Westbrook, Michael Bradley, Mauricio Pochettino. [edit]

Jozy Altidore's most significant public relationship is with professional tennis player Sloane Stephens. The couple began dating around 2016, quickly becoming a power couple in the sports world. They got engaged in 2017 and tied the knot in late 2017 or early 2018, though exact dates vary slightly between sources. Their union has been characterized by mutual support at major sporting events and a shared commitment to fitness and health. As of 2026, they remain happily married with no reports of separation. Prior to meeting Stephens, Altidore was rumored to have dated various models and athletes, but no long-term relationships were officially confirmed by credible sources or the individuals themselves. [edit]

iFANN currently estimates Jozy Altidore's net worth at approximately $14 million. This figure reflects a combination of his lucrative playing contracts, endorsement deals, and strategic investments post-retirement. During his peak years in Europe and with Toronto FC, Altidore commanded significant salaries, particularly after his record-breaking 24-goal season in the Netherlands. His tenure with the USMNT also brought substantial bonuses and sponsorship revenue from brands like Nike and Gatorade.

Since retiring in 2021, Altidore has diversified his income through broadcasting and equity stakes. As a lead analyst for Telemundo, he earns a steady, high-income stream covering major tournaments like the World Cup. In February 2026, he joined an ownership group led by Russell Westbrook for a new $1 billion soccer project in Oklahoma City. This venture represents a key component of his current financial portfolio, offering potential long-term growth. He is also involved with Sogility, a technology-driven soccer training facility chain, further solidifying his financial standing as of 2026. [edit]

Jozy Altidore won the 2017 MLS Cup MVP award after scoring two goals in the championship final. He secured the MLS Cup and Supporters' Shield with Toronto FC in 2017. Individually, he was named the U.S. Soccer Male Player of the Year in 2014. He was also selected as an MLS All-Star in 2015 and 2017. [edit]