In a stunning display of youthful brilliance, 18-year-old forward Julian Hall has etched his name into Major League Soccer history books. The Red Bull New York sensation became the youngest player ever to score a hat-trick in MLS, leading his team to a thrilling 3-2 victory over Columbus Crew at Sports Illustrated Stadium.
At just 18 years and 50 days old, Hall delivered a performance that belied his age. He found the net twice in the first half before completing his historic treble after the break, bringing his season tally to nine league goals in just 13 appearances. The previous record belonged to former FC Dallas striker Ricardo Pepi, who was 18 years and 196 days old when he achieved the feat against LA Galaxy in 2021.
Born in New York with Polish heritage through his mother, Hall's journey to this moment has been nothing short of remarkable. He made his MLS debut at just 15 years old in 2023 and has since represented the United States at under-15 and under-17 levels, while also maintaining eligibility to play for Poland internationally.
After the match, an emotional Hall reflected on his achievement. "I got kind of emotional when they told me about the record," he shared. "It just makes me think about all the times I was working so hard to make memories like this."
Head coach Michael Bradley couldn't hide his admiration for the young star, saying he has enjoyed "every second" of working with Hall. "Nothing's going in his head. He comes in every day ready to work, ready to train, ready to listen. He has great personality," Bradley added, calling the teenager "a great kid."
The victory lifts Red Bull New York to sixth place in the Eastern Conference, level on 18 points with local rivals New York City FC. The two sides are set to face off this Saturday in what promises to be an electrifying derby clash.
Elsewhere in the Eastern Conference, Lionel Messi continued to defy age and expectations. The 38-year-old superstar scored twice and added an assist as Inter Miami defeated Cincinnati 5-3, moving into second place just two points behind leaders Nashville. Messi thought he had completed his 61st career hat-trick late in the game, but the goal was controversially credited as an own goal by Cincinnati goalkeeper Roman Celentano after the ball rebounded off the post and deflected off the keeper into the net. The Argentine now boasts 11 goals and four assists in 12 league appearances this season, adding to his staggering career totals of 909 goals and 411 assists.
In other youth highlights, 16-year-old Cavan Sullivan continues to turn heads with his performances, further proof that the future of MLS is in very capable hands.