Tim Howard Biography: Timothy Matthew Howard, born on March 6, 1979, is a retired American professional soccer player who played as a goalkeeper. Widely regarded as one of the greatest American players in history, he earned the nickname “Secretary of Defense” for his commanding presence on the field.
Tim Howard Biography
Born on March 6, 1979, in North Brunswick, New Jersey, Timothy Matthew Howard is a celebrated former American professional soccer player, best known for his outstanding goalkeeping. Standing 6 feet 3 inches tall (1.91 meters), Howard’s career spanned over 20 years, during which he became a prominent figure in both American and international soccer.
Tim Howard Biography 2025 Details
| Full name | Timothy Matthew Howard | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Date of birth | March 6, 1979 | ||
| Place of birth | North Brunswick, New Jersey, U.S. | ||
| Height | 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) | ||
| Position(s) | Goalkeeper | ||
| Category | Football Biographies | ||
See More:
About Tim Howard
Timothy Matthew Howard is an American former professional soccer player who played as a goalkeeper. He is the part-owner of Houston Dynamo FC of Major League Soccer, National League South club Dagenham & Redbridge as well as an international ambassador in the United States for Premier League club Everton.
Tim Howard Achievements
Today, Howard is a part-owner of Major League Soccer’s Houston Dynamo FC, National League South club Dagenham & Redbridge, and serves as an international ambassador for Premier League club Everton in the United States. Howard began his professional journey with the North Jersey Imperials before moving to the MetroStars. In 2003, he made a significant career leap by signing with English powerhouse Manchester United, where he took over as the starting goalkeeper from Fabian Barthez.
Tim Howard Wiki
- Born: 6 March 1979 (age 46 years), North Brunswick Township, New Jersey, United States
- Number: 24 (Everton F.C. / Goalkeeper), 1 (Colorado Rapids / Goalkeeper)
- Spouse: Laura Ciancola (m. 2003–2012)
- Dates joined: 4 March 2020 (Memphis 901 FC) ·
- Parents: Esther Fekete Howard, Matthew Howard
- Children: Alivia Howard, Jacob Howard
Early Life
Tim Howard was born on March 6, 1979, in New Brunswick, New Jersey, to Matthew Howard, an African-American truck driver, and Esther (née Fekete), a Hungarian-born worker for a container packing company. His parents divorced when he was three years old, and his father left the family early on, before Tim could form any lasting memories of him. Howard was raised by his mother. During sixth grade, Howard was diagnosed with Tourette syndrome and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), conditions he would later speak openly about throughout his career.
Howard’s soccer journey began in 1991 when he caught the attention of Tim Mulqueen, a former assistant coach for the U.S. under-17 national team. Mulqueen spotted Howard’s potential during a single $25 training session and began mentoring him, offering free coaching. At the ages of 14 and 15, Howard further impressed Peter Mellor, a former professional goalkeeper working with the U.S. Soccer Federation. Mellor recognized Howard’s talent during an Olympic Development Program (ODP) camp and helped place him in the ODP system.
Quick Facts
- Full Name: Timothy Matthew Howard
- Date of Birth: March 6, 1979
- Birthplace: North Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
- Nationality: American
- Height: 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
- Relationship Status: Divorced
- Former Spouse: Laura Howard (married 2003–2012)
- Children: Two – Jacob and Alivia
- Net Worth (2025): Estimated at $10 million
Career Beginnings and Rise to Prominence
Howard’s professional journey began in 1997 with the North Jersey Imperials. His talent quickly caught the attention of the MetroStars, who signed him in 1998. Over five seasons in Major League Soccer, he earned a reputation for his sharp reflexes and earned the MLS Goalkeeper of the Year award in 2001.
Howard made a major move to the English Premier League, signing with Manchester United. He became the club’s starting goalkeeper and helped them win the 2003–04 FA Cup. In 2006, he joined Everton on loan, later making the move permanent. He went on to make over 400 appearances for the club and made history in 2012 by scoring a rare goal from his own box against Bolton Wanderers—becoming only the fourth goalkeeper to score in Premier League history.
International Career and Achievements
Howard’s international career was equally impressive. Between 2002 and 2017, he earned 121 caps with the U.S. Men’s National Team, making him the most capped goalkeeper in U.S. history. He played in multiple major tournaments, including the 2010 and 2014 FIFA World Cups. His performance against Belgium in the 2014 World Cup, where he recorded 16 saves—a World Cup record—cemented his place in football history. In recognition of his contributions to the sport, Howard was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 2024.
Recent Developments and Ongoing Involvement in Soccer
After retiring from playing, Howard transitioned to sports media and became a Premier League analyst for NBC Sports. In 2018, he joined the ownership group of Memphis 901 FC in the USL Championship and later became the club’s sporting director. 2020, he briefly came out of retirement to play for the team, demonstrating his continued passion for the game. In July 2024, Howard expanded his investment in soccer by becoming a minority owner of both MLS club Houston Dynamo and NWSL’s Houston Dash—mirroring the entrepreneurial path of his former teammate, David Beckham.
Personal Life and Advocacy
Howard married Laura Howard in 2003, and the couple had two children, Jacob and Alivia, before divorcing in 2012. Throughout his life, Howard has been a strong advocate for those living with Tourette syndrome, using his platform to raise awareness and inspire others facing similar challenges. His resilience on and off the field has made him not only a sports icon but also a source of encouragement to many around the world.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
- Goal-Scoring Goalkeeper: In 2012, Howard scored a rare goalkeeper goal in the Premier League with a 100-yard clearance against Bolton Wanderers—an uncommon feat in top-flight football.
- Tourette Syndrome Advocate: One of the most well-known public figures with Tourette syndrome, Howard has used his platform to raise awareness and educate others about the condition.
- Author: He penned a memoir, The Keeper: A Life of Saving Goals and Achieving Them, offering insight into his personal journey, career, and life with Tourette syndrome.
Charitable Work and Legacy
Howard has long been active in charitable initiatives, particularly those focused on neurological disorders and youth soccer development. His advocacy for individuals with Tourette syndrome has had a meaningful impact, helping reduce stigma and inspire many facing similar conditions. Through his support of youth soccer programs and community engagement, he has solidified his legacy both on and off the field. Recognized as one of the most influential goalkeepers in U.S. soccer history, Howard’s story is as much about his humanitarian efforts as his athletic success.
Future Plans and Cultural Impact
Tim Howard continues to shape American soccer in his post-playing career. As a club co-owner and executive, he plays a hands-on role in the sport’s development at the grassroots and professional levels. His work as an analyst for NBC Sports allows him to bring deeper insights to fans and further promote the game across the U.S.
Looking forward, Howard is expected to remain a key figure in the soccer world. His investments in MLS and NWSL teams highlight his long-term vision for growing the sport across genders and age groups. Beyond his on-field achievements, Howard is celebrated as a pioneer—someone who turned personal challenges into platforms for advocacy and transformation. His influence reaches far beyond the pitch, leaving a lasting cultural legacy of perseverance, leadership, and inspiration.
Tim Howard Net Worth 2025
Tim Howard’s net worth is estimated at approximately $10 million. His income is derived from a successful professional soccer career, brand endorsements, and strategic investments. In late 2022, he became an ambassador for the sports betting company BetMGM, expanding his presence in the business side of sports. Howard has also invested in soccer clubs, including Memphis 901 FC and Houston Dynamo, underscoring his dedication to the growth of the sport in the U.S.
FAQs
What is Tim Howard’s net worth?
Howard — who plays professionally for the Everton Football Club in Britain’s Premier League — has a net worth of about $10 million with annual earnings of $3 million, according to www.celebritynetworth.com.
How many saves did Tim Howard have against Belgium?
On this day, Tim Howard set a World Cup record with 16 saves against Belgium in the 2014 World Cup Round of 16.
What is Tim Howard’s job now?
He is currently minority owner and sporting director for Memphis 901 in the USL Championship, where he also started four games in goal this past spring. Howard was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame as a member of the Class of 2024.
Is Tim Howard the best goalkeeper?
Tim Howard is an American soccer legend. He has the most caps and wins of any goalkeeper in US Soccer history, he played in three World Cups and holds the record for most saves by any goalkeeper in a single game in World Cup history.