Between the FIFA World Cup, viral highlights, and household names like Neymar, Lionel Messi, Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappé, and Cristiano Ronaldo, soccer is everywhere this year. If you’re looking for a baby name that’s athletic, international, and meaningful, these soccer-inspired names are full of style—and incredible stories. They really are this year’s summer celebrities, which makes them excellent candidates for baby naming inspiration.
If you’re an expectant parent getting ready to welcome your future star, look no further. We’ve rounded up 45 soccer baby names, all inspired by your favorite star soccer players from around the globe. From simple and sweet boy names to charming and strong names for girls, this list has a title that will be perfect for your future Rookie of the Year.
You May Also Like:
- For Your Little MVP: 65 Football-Inspired Baby Names We Love
- Cool Baby Names Inspired by Olympians in the 2026 Winter Games
- The Best Soccer Movies for Kids Who Can’t Wait for the World Cup
Boy Soccer Names
These boy names are inspired by some of the best soccer players in the world, from legend Cristiano Ronaldo to USMNT primary captain Tim Ream. Keep reading for soccer-inspired baby boy names.
Beckham
Even if you’re not a die-hard soccer fan, you’ve likely heard of David Beckham, a former English professional who played at three FIFA World Cups and two European Championships. His mastery of bending-free kicks trademarked the famous phrase, “Bend it like Beckham”—also a famous film!
Cristian
Cristian Pulisic is currently the most decorated American soccer player of his generation. He will lead the team this year in the 2026 World Cup and has been nicknamed “Captain America” for his renowned leadership in the league. Any budding athlete would be lucky to share a name with him.
Clint
Another American player who is celebrated as one of the greatest of all time! Clint Dempsey is the only American to score in three different FIFA World Cups, and is tied with Landon Donovan as the leading goalscorer on the Men’s National Team.
Cristiano
Wherever your soccer knowledge lies, you’ve likely heard of Cristiano Ronaldo. Among his countless awards (35 major trophies, to be exact!), he is known as the leading goal-scorer in the history of soccer. For a future star player, there’s no more fitting title.
Dempsey
Yet another callback to the iconic Clint Dempsey. Surnames for first names is a growing baby name trend, and with the impressive record Clint Dempsey holds, your baby would be lucky to sport this one.
Diego
Best known for leading Argentina to victory in the 1986 FIFA World Cup, Diego Maradona is highly regarded as one of the most influential players in the history of the sport. During the 1986 World Cup, he scored a historic goal nicknamed the “Goal of the Century”—he dribbled past five English players over roughly 60 meters!
Edson
Edson is actually the real name of the famous Brazilian soccer player Pelé, who won three World Cups over the course of his career. He’s also famous for trademarking the phrase, “jogo bonito,” or, “the beautiful game,” to describe the feeling of being out on the field with his teammates.
Erling
If there’s one breakout star from the 2026 World Cup it’s Norwegian player Erling Haaland. The striker has made his mark for not only his incredible power in a game, but his fun-loving videos on social media and exceptional health habits. The name Erling itself has Germanic and Old Norse roots (naturally) and means son of a nobleman. It’s a strong name that evokes leadership. More Scandinavian baby names here!
Harry
Sure you might identify this with a certain British prince, but did you know England’s team captain is also named Harry? If you’re a fan of Harry Kane this name meaning “home ruler” or “army ruler” is a strong choice.
Hugo
Hugo Sánchez Márquez is a former Mexican soccer player and manager who won La Liga’s top scorer award five times. He appeared in three FIFA World Cups and is an icon in the soccer world.
Jude
Who doesn’t love when the England team belts out “Hey Jude” to honor star player Jude Bellingham. It’s a name of Hebrew origin and it means “praised” or “thanks be given.”
Landon
Landon Donovan is another American soccer player who will go down in history as one of the greatest of all time! He’s scored five World Cup goals and even has an annual MVP award named after him: the Landon Donovan MLS MVP Award.
Leo
Precious as ever, this name stands on its own as a short and sweet title for a little boy—but its ties to Lionel Messi, the Argentine soccer player who led his team to a World Cup victory in 2022, certainly help. Leo is actually the famous player’s nickname.
Lionel
Another ode to Lionel Messi, because he’s just that good. If Leo feels too simple, opt for the famous player’s given first name, which means “young lion” or “lion cub.”
Ney
Fun fact, my grandfather’s name was Ney. It’s a very Portuguese name but has roots in France. It ultimately means new. It’s been popularized by Brazilian player Neymar Jr. (named after his father Neymar Sr.) who is often called Ney as a nickname.
Ronaldo
One name on this list wasn’t enough for the top goal-scorer of all time! Give your kiddo Cristiano Ronaldo’s surname for a sporty, cool boy name they’ll love forever.
Striker
While not inspired by any soccer player in particular, Striker is an aggressive and sporty first name perfect for a kiddo destined for the front line.
Tim
There are multiple famous Tims and Timothys in the soccer world. Tim Weah is the American soccer player known for his explosive speed and agility. Tim Ream, the veteran American player, will be a captain at the 2026 World Cup. And Tim Howard, a legendary American goalkeeper, gave a record-setting performance in the 2014 World Cup.
Wayne
This cool boy name is best known in the soccer world for Wayne Henessy, who was a stellar goalkeeper for the Wales National Team and Crystal Palace. He played a monumental role in helping Wales qualify for their first World Cup in 64 years at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Girl Soccer Names
For your little girl bound for the soccer field, these girl names are strong, sweet, and charming, all inspired by our favorite women soccer players from around the world!
Abby
With a 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup title and two Olympic gold medals, Abby Wambach is one of the most decorated female soccer players ever—and one of the most prolific scorers! For your future soccer star, this is a classic and adorable pick.
Alexia
This gorgeous first name belongs to the star Spanish player Alexia Putellas, who was the driving force behind the Barcelona team’s rise to fame. As an attacking midfielder, she amassed 232 goals, making her her club’s top scorer.
Brandi
A cool girl name your little one will love! Plus, you may recognize Brandi Chastain as the name behind a very famous sequence in soccer history. When she scored the game-winning penalty kick for the United States at the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup, she dropped to her knees and tore off her jersey—an iconic celebratory moment!
Briana
Briana Scurry made history as the first Black woman inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame. She played a pivotal role in the 1999 Women’s World Cup victory and won two Olympic gold medals.
Carli
A two-time FIFA Player of the Year, two-time World Cup Champion, and two-time Olympic gold medalist, Carli Lloyd is widely regarded as one of the greatest female soccer players ever. Plus, the twist on the typical spelling (Carly) makes this an adorable and trendy first name.
Joy
Joy Fawcett is not only a decorated American player who won two World Cups and two Olympic gold medals, but she was also the pioneering “Soccer Mom.” She returned to the game just six weeks after giving birth to her third child.
Kristine
Nicknamed the “Queen of Caps,” Kristine Lilly played 354 international matches over 23 years—the most ever! She was a member of the iconic “99ers,” who played in several World Cups and championships.
Lilly/Lily
Another ode to such a trailblazing female soccer player. If Kristine isn’t your style, consider Lilly for your little one, not only for its ties to soccer, but for its namesake flower and ties to nature.
Marta
Marta Vieira da Silva is a record-breaking Brazilian soccer player any little girl would be lucky to share a name with. She’s received six FIFA World Player of the Year awards and has been a huge advocate for gender equality in sports.
Megan
Not only did Megan Rapinoe lead her team to two World Cup titles and an Olympic gold medal, but she was a fierce advocate off the field for LGBTQ+ rights, racial justice, and gender equality in sports and around the world. Is there a more worthy role model for little girls everywhere?
Mia
Mia Hamm is yet another highly influential (and decorated) female soccer player. She has two Olympic gold medals and two FIFA World Cup championships under her belt. Plus, a name meaning “beloved” is a fitting title for a little girl.
Michelle
Michelle Akers was a founding member of the United States Women’s National Team in 1985. She even scored the program’s first-ever goal! For a courageous little girl with lots of big goals, this is the perfect pick.
Rose
Not only is Rose a classic girl’s name, but it also belongs to the groundbreaking soccer player Rose Lavelle. Her exceptional dribbling, close control, and knack for scoring guided her breakout performance in the 2019 World Cup.
Trinity
Trinity Rodman may have been first known as the daughter of NBA legend Dennis Rodman, but she’s since made a name for herself as an Olympic gold medalist and trailblazing member of the Women’s National Team.
Gender-Neutral Soccer Names
If you’re in search of a gender-neutral name for your future star athlete, don’t worry. There are plenty of names to choose from among our favorite soccer teams.
Alex
A two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion, Olympic gold medalist, and NWSL Golden Boot winner, Alex Morgan is one of the most decorated female soccer players in the world. For a little one destined for greatness, this is the perfect gender-neutral title.
Charlie
Dedicated soccer fans may recognize this name for its ties to Charlie Davies, who was a remarkable soccer striker on the U.S. Men’s National Team. He’s also known for his incredible recovery from a serious car accident. For parents who want to bestow determination and grit in their little one, this is the perfect title.
Cleo
This gender-neutral name belongs to retired Brazilian professional footballer Cléo Gabriel Córdova. He had a highly successful stint with Serbian club Partizan Belgrade, where he won consecutive league titles and eventually became a standout goalkeeper.
Finley
Finley is a baby name that is getting more and more popular! Plus, American player Ethan Finley served a successful 13-season career as a winger in Major League Soccer. For your budding athlete, consider this adorable name.
Jordan
A highly successful forward for Major League Soccer club Seattle Sounders FC, Jordan Morris has been a frequent player on the U.S. Men’s National Team. He even played in the 2022 World Cup!
Jozy
A powerhouse striker for the U.S. Men’s National Team, Jozy Altidore is the third-leading goal-scorer in USMNT history. Plus, Jozy can easily be a nickname for Josephine, Joceyln, or Joseph.
Kasey
Kasey Keller is the name of a legendary American goalkeeper! He was the first American to be a regular starter in the top soccer leagues of England, Spain, and Germany and a four-time World Cup participant. Kasey (or Casey) is a great pick for a little boy or girl.
Kylian
Kylian Mbappé burst onto the soccer scene at 19-years-old, and since then has helped lead France to multiple championships. Most notably, he won the FIFA World Cup Best Young Player award. For a young one destined for greatness, consider this gender-neutral name.
Leighton
Leighton Baines is an English former professional footballer and coach! He led the England National Team in the 2014 World Cup and is renowned for his assists and key passes. Leighton remains an edgy and modern baby name. And with its ties to sports, there’s no better title for your little one.
Memphis
Memphis Depay is a Dutch soccer forward known for his long-range shots and explosive dribbling skills! Of course, Memphis’ appeal as a baby name doesn’t end there. If the namesake city holds any importance to your family, this is a great gender-neutral pick.
Quinn
Not only is Quinn an adorable name for any baby, but Quinn is also the name of a famous Canadian soccer player who is the first openly transgender and non-binary athlete to compete in and win an Olympic medal in soccer.
Yamal
If there’s another major breakout of this World Cup, it’s young Lamine Yamal. While Lamine means worthy or trustworthy, Yamal means beauty or excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Soccer Baby Names
What are good soccer-inspired baby names?
Some of the best soccer-inspired baby names include Lionel, Erling, Jude, Thiago, Mateo, Leo, Alexia, Aitana, Ronaldo, Ney, and Trinity. These names are inspired by some of the world’s most recognizable soccer players while also standing on their own as stylish, meaningful baby names. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or simply love the sound of these names, soccer-inspired baby names offer a unique way to celebrate the world’s most popular sport.
What baby names are inspired by famous soccer players?
Many parents choose baby names inspired by famous soccer players, including Lionel (Messi), Erling (Haaland), Jude (Bellingham), Lamine (Yamal), Alexia (Putellas), Aitana (Bonmatí), Naomi (Girma), and Trinity (Rodman). These names have become increasingly popular as soccer continues to grow around the world, especially during major tournaments like the FIFA World Cup.
What are unique international soccer baby names?
Soccer is a global sport, making it a great source of unique international baby names. Options like Erling (Norwegian), Lamine (Spanish), Thiago (Portuguese), Mateo (Spanish), Aitana (Spanish), Alexia (Greek), and Salma (Arabic) reflect cultures from around the world while honoring some of the game’s biggest stars. Many of these names are uncommon in the U.S. but easy to pronounce and full of meaning.
Are there soccer baby names for girls?
Yes! There are plenty of beautiful soccer-inspired baby names for girls. Popular choices include Alexia after Alexia Putellas, Aitana after Aitana Bonmatí, Trinity after Trinity Rodman, Naomi after Naomi Girma, Sophia after Sophia Wilson, and Salma after Salma Paralluelo. These names are feminine, modern, and inspired by some of the most accomplished players in women’s soccer.
Rebecca Smith, Editorial Assistant
As an Editorial Assistant, Rebecca works with The Everymom team on updating existing content, photo sourcing, pitching original articles, and more. She’s passionate about creating authentic and diverse online content and is thrilled to help women of all ages feel represented.
Roberta Correia, Editor-in-Chief
Roberta is an editor with 10+ years experience in content strategy and brand building. Before joining The Everymom she was Editorial Director at Brides and previously served as Digital Editor at Women’s Wear Daily. She grew up in Brazil and currently calls Brooklyn home with her son, Lucas.
