Major League Soccer this week named Nick Rimando and Kyle Beckerman among the top 25 greatest players in league history.
The list was chosen by a panel fo 200 MLS experts who whittled down an initial list of 137 players. The league nominated the initial 137.
The experts took under consideration players who won multiple individual league honors, won trophies, made significant impacts off the field and were among all-time leaders in major statistical categories.
Rimando reacted to the news with a tweet.
“HONORED to be chosen as one of THE 2️5 GREATEST,” he wrote. “HUMBLED to share the honor with 24 other incredible athletes. GRATEFUL to share this with all my teammates, coaches, friends, family and fans.”
Rimando, who retired after the 2019 season, is considered the best goalkeeper in MLS history. He holds the all-time records in appearances (514), goalkeeper wins (223), saves (1,701) and shoutouts (154).
Rimando is a two-time MLS Cup winner and won the MLS Cup MVP in 2009 with Real Salt Lake. He was an MLS All Star eight times and also won the Supporters’ Shield twice in his career.
Minnesota United midfielder Kevin Molino (7) shoots the ball while defended by Real Salt Lake midfielder Kyle Beckerman (5) during the first half of an MLS soccer game, Sunday, Sept, 6, 2020 in St. Paul, Minn. (Jeff Wheeler/Star Tribune via AP)
Beckerman just finished his 21st season in MLS. He’s the only player in league history to play 20 years in a league that is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. He won MLS Cup in 2009 with Real Salt Lake and has been an MLS All Star nine times.
Eddie Pope was also named to the top 25 list. He played for RSL from 2005-2007 and retired after that.
