Alexi Lalas born June 1 1970 is an American former professional soccer player, executive, and television analyst. A commanding defender for the United States Men’s National Team, he played every minute of the 1994 FIFA World Cup and earned 96 caps. He later competed in Italy’s Serie A with Padova before retiring in 2004 and moving into MLS leadership and broadcasting.
Quick Bio
- Full Name: Panayotis Alexander Lalas
- Nickname: Alexi
- Date of Birth: June 1, 1970
- Age: 55 years (as of 2026)
- Birthplace: Birmingham, Michigan, USA
- Nationality: American
- Ethnicity: Greek-American
- Profession: Former Professional Soccer Player, Executive, Sports Analyst
- Position: Defender (Center Back)
- College: Rutgers University
Early Life, Family & Background
Alexi Lalas was born in Birmingham, Michigan.
Parents
His father, Demetrios Lalas, is a Greek academic who later served as director of Greece’s National Observatory, and his mother, Anne Harding Woodworth, is an American poet and writer.
Raised in a Greek-American household, Lalas developed discipline and cultural pride that influenced his athletic career.
Siblings
His younger brother, Greg Lalas, also pursued a career in soccer and later became a soccer executive, serving in leadership roles within the United Soccer League.
High School Education
He attended Cranbrook Kingswood School in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, where he was named Michigan High School Player of the Year in 1987 before committing to Rutgers University.
College Career
Lalas played college soccer at Rutgers University from 1988 to 1991. In 1991, he won the Hermann Trophy as the top collegiate soccer player in the United States and earned All-American honors.
NFL Career
United States National Team (1991–1998): Lalas earned 96 international caps and scored 9 international goals. He played every minute of the 1994 FIFA World Cup and also represented the United States at the 1998 World Cup.
Padova (1994–1996): Following the 1994 World Cup, he signed with Italian club Padova, becoming one of the first Americans in the modern era to compete in Serie A.
Major League Soccer (1996–2004): He played for the New England Revolution, MetroStars, Kansas City Wizards, and Los Angeles Galaxy. He won the MLS Cup in 2002 with the LA Galaxy.
Playing Style: Lalas was known for his aerial strength, leadership, physical defending, and goal-scoring ability from set pieces.
Career Professional Statistics: 96 international caps, 9 international goals, over 200 professional club appearances.
Contracts & Endorsements
While exact contract figures from his playing career were not publicly disclosed, Lalas earned professional contracts in Italy’s Serie A and MLS. His executive roles and broadcasting career have also contributed significantly to his earnings.
Physical Measurements
- Height: 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 m)
- Weight: Approximately 209 lbs (95 kg)
- Eye Color: Blue
- Hair Color: Red
- Athletic Build: Tall and Physically Strong
Philanthropy & Community Work
Lalas has been involved in youth soccer development and grassroots initiatives aimed at growing the sport in the United States.
Salary & Net Worth
As of 2026, his estimated net worth is approximately $3.5 million, based on publicly reported figures.
Relationship, Wife & Children
Alexi Lalas married Anne Rewey on December 14, 2002. The couple has two children: a daughter named Sophie Lalas and a son named Henry Lalas.
Awards & Achievements
- Hermann Trophy Winner (1991)
- MLS Cup Champion (2002 – LA Galaxy)
- U.S. Soccer Athlete of the Year (1995)
- Inducted into National Soccer Hall of Fame (2006)
- 96 International Caps for United States
Social Media
- Instagram: @alexilalas
- Twitter (X): @AlexiLalas
Trivia
- Played every minute of the 1994 FIFA World Cup.
- First American of the modern era to play in Italy’s Serie A.
- Won MLS Cup in 2002 with LA Galaxy.
- Inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 2006.
FAQs
Who are Alexi Lalas’s parents?
Demetrios Lalas and Anne Harding Woodworth.
Does Alexi Lalas have siblings?
Yes, his younger brother Greg Lalas.
Who is Alexi Lalas married to?
Anne Rewey.
How many children does he have?
Two children: Sophie Lalas and Henry Lalas.