Youngest MLS MVP

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Carlos Ruiz (MLS)
Debby Wong/Shutterstock.com
Posted: Aug 13, 2023

The youngest player to win the MLS MVP is Carlos Ruiz, who won the award at 23 in 2002. In his MLS debut season, he led the league with 24 goals for the LA Galaxy while leading them to the MLS Cup. He would also win the MLS Cup MVP.

Youngest MLS MVPs
Age (years) Person Description Date
23.09 Carlos Ruíz 24 goals and 1 assist for LA Galaxy 2002
25.55 Josef Martínez 31 goals and 6 assists for Atlanta United 2018
25.7 Taylor Twellman 17 goals and 7 assists for New England Revolution 2005
26.89 Jason Kreis 18 goals and 15 assists for FC Dallas 1999
27.62 Hany Mukhtar 23 goals and 11 assists for Nashville SC 2022
27.71 Landon Donovan 12 goals and 6 assists for LA Galaxy 2009

Quotes

Carlos has set a new standard for international players who wish to come compete in MLS with his exciting play and outstanding results,...This reward is a true testament to his ability and work ethic, which allow him to create goal scoring opportunities out of the smallest of openings and put constant pressure on our opponents.

Doug Hamilton
References
  • Galaxy's Ruiz Named 2002 MVP

    Ruiz, 23, is the youngest player ever to win Honda MVP honors, eclipsing the mark of 26 set by the Dallas Burn's Jason Kreis in 1999. In just his first MLS season, Ruiz took the League by storm, finding the back of the net six times in the Galaxy's first four games. The ruthless finisher scorched MLS for 49 points on 24 goals and one assist, just four points behind Taylor Twellman for the Budweiser Scoring crown.

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