Matthew Andrew Geary Freese

Matt Freese attended the prestigious Episcopal Academy in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, before enrolling at Harvard University in 2016. At Harvard, he played two seasons for the Crimson, earning Second Team All-Ivy honors as a sophomore before leaving the university in 2018 to pursue his professional soccer career.

Matt Freese’s soccer journey began in the youth ranks of the Philadelphia Union Academy, where his talent quickly became apparent. During the 2017 season, he gained early exposure by appearing on the bench for the Union's reserve squad, Bethlehem Steel. Seeking to balance his education and athletic development, he enrolled at Harvard University, playing for the Crimson. However, his undeniable potential led him to leave college early, signing a Homegrown Player contract with the Philadelphia Union in December 2018.

Freese made his professional MLS debut on April 19, 2019, coming on as a substitute against the Montreal Impact. During his time in Philadelphia, he served primarily as a highly capable backup to Jamaican international Andre Blake. One of his most defining moments with the Union came on Decision Day in 2020, where he made a crucial start, kept a clean sheet against the New England Revolution, and helped the club secure its first-ever trophy, the Supporters' Shield.

In January 2023, seeking an opportunity to be a full-time starter, Freese was traded to New York City FC (NYCFC). This move catalyzed his career. He quickly established himself as the undisputed number one goalkeeper for NYCFC. His breakout campaign came in 2024, when he finished third in the league in saves and fourth in save percentage, ultimately being named NYCFC's Most Valuable Player. He continued this dominant form into 2025, recording a career-best eight clean sheets and setting a club playoff record.

Freese’s international career with the United States began in the youth system, featuring for the U-19 and U-23 squads. His senior debut occurred on June 7, 2025, against Turkiye in Columbus. He truly made his mark during the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup, starting all six matches and helping the USMNT reach the final. His heroics in the quarterfinal against Costa Rica, where he saved three penalties in a shootout, cemented his reputation as a clutch performer under immense pressure.

In May 2026, Freese’s exceptional domestic and international form was rewarded when USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino selected him for the 26-man roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. As one of three goalkeepers on the squad, Freese joined the team preparing to compete on home soil, a monumental milestone that validated his decision to pursue professional soccer at the highest level.

Matt Freese hails from a highly educated and supportive family in Wayne, Pennsylvania. He is the son of Marcia Freese, who holds an MBA in healthcare management, and the late Dr. Andrew Freese, a renowned neurosurgeon and Harvard/MIT graduate who pioneered gene therapy research before his passing in 2021. His older brother, Jack, was also a collegiate athlete who rowed heavyweight crew at Harvard.

Off the pitch, Freese has a strong interest in interior design and architecture. In 2025, he purchased and personally renovated an apartment in New York City, describing his aesthetic style as 'French lounge café,' featuring dark hardwood floors and ornate details. He is also a passionate fan of EDM remixes and frequently attends concerts, notably citing the duo Two Friends among his favorite musical acts.

Freese is deeply committed to giving back to the community that supports him. He serves on the board of directors for South Bronx United, a non-profit organization located near Yankee Stadium. Through this organization, he actively participates in fundraising and mentoring, using soccer as a tool for social change and providing opportunities for youth in underserved neighborhoods.