In a groundbreaking move that has sent shockwaves through the world of sports, 13-year-old Da’vian Kimbrough has etched his name in history as the youngest professional athlete in North American professional sports. Hailing from the United States, Kimbrough's meteoric rise to fame and talent beyond his years have taken him to the soccer pitch, where he recently signed a professional contract with the USL’s Sacramento Republic FC.
Kimbrough's journey began at the age of 11 when he joined Republic FC’s youth academy in 2021. Over the past two seasons, he has proven himself as an exceptional forward, registering a remarkable 61 goals in 81 matches while playing for Sacramento’s U-13 and U-14 teams in the prestigious MLS Next league.
His achievements didn't stop there. Kimbrough's remarkable skills and dedication to his craft earned him a spot as a guest player for the MLS's Red Bulls in the Bassevelde U-13 Cup, a renowned youth tournament featuring esteemed clubs such as Juventus, West Ham, and Benfica. In an awe-inspiring performance, Kimbrough not only helped the Red Bulls secure victory but also earned the coveted MVP honors, solidifying his status as a rising star on the international stage.
The 5’11” prodigy's rapid ascent hasn't gone unnoticed, as he has now earned the distinction of being the youngest pro athlete in the NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, WNBA, and the USL Championship. This remarkable feat surpasses the previous record held by Maximo Carrizo, who signed with New York City FC at the age of 14 in February 2022.
As Kimbrough steps onto the professional stage, he faces the prospect of making his debut for the Sacramento Republic FC as early as this Saturday against Birmingham Legion FC. His unwavering commitment, perseverance, and exceptional talent have paved the way for a promising future, and his story is only beginning.
In the words of Todd Dunivant, president, and general manager of Republic FC, "He is a remarkable talent who has committed to his dream of becoming an elite player, from competing with players in older age groups, thriving at top competitions, to stepping onto the first team training grounds. We are honored that the Kimbrough family and Da’vian have chosen Republic FC to support his professional pathway, and we look forward to taking the next steps together."
Da’vian Kimbrough's extraordinary journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring young athletes everywhere, a testament to the power of determination, hard work, and a passion for the game. As he continues to make waves in the soccer world, the future holds endless possibilities for this young phenom, and his legacy is destined to leave an indelible mark on the world of sports.
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