Who is McKenna Whitham? Soccer star makes U.S. sports history with debut at 14

United States soccer prospect McKenna Whitham wrote her name into the sporting history books as she became the youngest person to play in a top division in the country's history - breaking the record a day after turning 14.

The NJ/NY Gotham FC prospect had already made headlines after signing her first NWSL contract at the age of 13 years and 364 days to become the youngest player to do since the league's establishment. Just three days later, she appeared for the reigning title-holders - making her first appearance as a substitute.

The teenager was introduced from the bench by head coach Juan Carlos Amoros in the 80th minute of proceedings in a NWSL x Liga MX Summer Cup clash. After a 1-0 win was secured over the Washington Spirit at Subaru Park, the youngster appeared overcome with emotion after what had been a landmark evening for her and the club.

READ MORE: Canada women's soccer rocked by punishment for 2024 Paris Olympics spying scandal
READ MORE: Simone Biles injury fears after Team USA star made Olympics history

Whitham's first outing for Gotham FC saw her break the record set by Cavan Sullivan in MLS just eleven days prior , with the Philadelphia Union ace having coincidently made his bow on the same ground. Debuting at 14 years and 293 days old, the midfielder's appearance saw him smash the previous record set by the famous Freddy Adu back in 2004.

When it comes to the overall record for the youngest sportsperson to play professionally in the United States, the previous incumbent was Da'vian Kimbrough. He held the crown in that respect following his outing at the age of just 13 years, five months, and 13 days for Sacramento Republic FC in the USL Championship last year.

As for Whitham, the youngster has hailed from a sporting family as the daughter of Josh, who was an alternate for the United States Ski Team at the 1998 Winter Olympics. Raised in San Francisco, California, she previously trained with clubs including the Kansas City Current, the Washington Spirit and Los Angeles FC .

Follow us on X for the best and latest in sports news

Having signed an under-18 contract which will start in 2025 and last through to 2028, there is no doubting the faith that is being placed in the teenager by Gotham FC chiefs. Speaking with delight after penning her agreement, which will begin initially as a short-team national team replacement deal, she said: "I am really excited to sign and begin my professional career with Gotham FC.

"Gotham FC is a great place for me to continue to push myself as a player. I can't wait to get to work and to continue to grow as a player with the great players, coaches and staff at Gotham FC."

Speaking to ESPN previously, Whitham outlined her objectives moving forward, saying: "I processed it, and it’s still new to me. But, I mean, I’m not going to be cocky about it. I’m going to stay humble, and I’m still going to keep developing. My goal is to be a top player in the NWSL, and I know that Gotham will help me become that player."