History was made on May 13 at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey, as 18-year-old forward Julian Hall etched his name into the MLS record books. The Red Bull New York prodigy became the youngest player ever to record a hat trick in league history, powering his team to a thrilling 3-2 victory over the Columbus Crew.
At just 18 years and 50 days old, Hall shattered the previous record set by Ricardo Pepi, who was 18 years and 195 days when he achieved the feat for FC Dallas in 2021. It's a milestone that signals the arrival of a special talent on the big stage.
Hall is part of an exciting youth movement at Red Bull New York, affectionately dubbed the "Baby Bulls" by fans. Under the guidance of first-year head coach Michael Bradley—a former U.S. national team star and son of legendary coach Bob Bradley—the team is embracing raw potential. Alongside Hall, 16-year-old midfielder Adri Mehmeti and 17-year-old defender Matthew Dos Santos also started in the win over Columbus, showcasing a bold commitment to developing the next generation.
Hall's journey to this moment has been nothing short of remarkable. He made his MLS debut on September 30, 2023, at just 15 years and 190 days old, becoming the youngest debutant in Red Bull New York history and the second-youngest in MLS history (trailing only Freddy Adu at 14 years, 306 days). After appearing in just that one match in 2023, his role grew to 11 games in 2024 and 26 in 2025. But 2025 is shaping up to be his true breakout campaign—he's already scored nine goals in 13 matches, with his hat trick serving as the crowning achievement so far.
Born Julian Zakrzewski Hall, the young star holds dual eligibility for the United States and Poland national teams. While he has yet to make a senior appearance for either nation, he has already represented the U.S. at the U15 and U17 levels, hinting at a bright international future ahead.
For now, though, all eyes are on Hall and the Baby Bulls as they continue to turn heads in MLS. If this hat trick is any indication, we're witnessing the rise of a superstar in the making.