Jordan Perry Morris (born October 26, 1994) is an American professional soccer player renowned for his dynamic performances as a winger or forward for Seattle Sounders FC in Major League Soccer (MLS) and the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT).
He was born and raised in Seattle, Washington, Morris has carved out an illustrious career despite facing challenges such as Type 1 diabetes.
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Family Background and Early Life
Jordan Morris was born to Michael and Leslie Morris in Seattle.
His father, Dr. Michael Morris, serves as the Chief Medical Director of Seattle Sounders FC, fostering Jordan’s early connection to the club.
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Jordan has three siblings: Christopher, Julian, and Talia, with whom he shares a close bond.
Growing up on Mercer Island, Washington, Morris was introduced to soccer at a young age.
He attended Mercer Island High School, where he excelled in soccer before joining the Sounders Academy to refine his skills.
At the age of nine, Jordan was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, a condition that shaped his approach to life and sports.
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Despite the challenges, he used his diagnosis as motivation, even getting a tattoo that reads “T1D” as a tribute to those managing the condition.
Education and College Soccer
Morris attended Stanford University, where he played college soccer for the Stanford Cardinal.
During his time at Stanford, he became one of the most celebrated college players in the United States.
In his senior season, he won the Hermann Trophy, awarded to the top college soccer player.
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Morris balanced academics with soccer, honing his skills while pursuing higher education.
He left Stanford after his junior year to join the professional ranks, forgoing his senior season to sign with Seattle Sounders FC.
Professional Career
Seattle Sounders FC
Jordan Morris officially joined the Seattle Sounders in 2016 as a homegrown player, signing the league’s highest-ever homegrown contract worth approximately $250,000 annually.
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He made his professional debut on February 23, 2016, in a CONCACAF Champions League match against Club América.
Morris’s rookie season was spectacular, scoring his first MLS goal in April 2016 against the Philadelphia Union.
He went on to set a rookie scoring record for the Sounders and played a pivotal role in their 2016 MLS Cup victory, the club’s first championship.
He replicated his success in 2019, helping the Sounders secure their second MLS Cup.
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In 2022, Morris was instrumental in the Sounders’ run to win the CONCACAF Champions League, scoring three goals and earning a spot in the Team of the Tournament.
In 2023, he became the first Sounders player to score four goals in a single MLS match, demonstrating his goal-scoring prowess.
National Team Achievements
Jordan Morris has represented the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) across various levels.
He debuted for the senior team in 2014, becoming the first college player called up since 1999.
In 2015, he scored his first international goal in a friendly against Mexico.
Read also: Miah Harbaugh Biography: Career, Marriage, Divorce, and Net Worth
One of Morris’s most memorable moments came during the 2017 CONCACAF Gold Cup Final, where he scored the winning goal against Jamaica, securing the championship for the United States.
He was named joint top scorer of the tournament.
In 2022, Morris represented the USMNT in the FIFA World Cup, making a substitute appearance in the group-stage match against Wales.
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Loan to Swansea City
In early 2021, Morris was loaned to Swansea City in the English Championship.
Unfortunately, his stint was cut short after just four matches due to an ACL tear, marking a significant setback in his career.
However, he made a strong recovery and returned to the Seattle Sounders, continuing to perform at an elite level.
Jordan Morris Personal Life
Jordan Morris married his long-time partner, Eliza, in 2020.
The couple shares a love for animals and lives with several dogs.
Family plays a central role in Morris’s life, and he credits his wife and parents for their unwavering support throughout his career.
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In addition to his soccer career, Morris is passionate about raising awareness for Type 1 diabetes.
He has become an advocate for those managing the condition, inspiring young athletes with similar challenges to pursue their dreams.
Jordan Morris Net Worth and Earnings
Jordan Morris has built a substantial net worth through his soccer career.
His annual earnings from Seattle Sounders FC are estimated at ₦2.61 billion ($3.4 million), which breaks down to approximately:
– Monthly: ₦217.51 million
– Weekly: ₦50.19 million
– Daily: ₦10.04 million
These earnings, combined with endorsement deals and bonuses from national team appearances, place Morris among the higher earners in MLS.
His net worth is estimated to be around $8 million.
Legacy and Impact
Jordan Morris’s career is a testament to resilience and determination.
Despite facing health challenges and injuries, he has achieved remarkable success, both domestically and internationally.
His story inspires athletes and fans alike, proving that obstacles can be overcome with hard work and a positive mindset.
As he continues to excel with Seattle Sounders FC and the USMNT, Jordan Morris remains a role model for aspiring soccer players, especially those managing chronic conditions.
With his talent, dedication, and support system, Morris’s legacy in soccer is sure to endure for years to come.