Robbie Rogers

Verified Timeline

Lore & Background

In February 2013, Rogers came out as gay, becoming the second male soccer player in Britain to do so after Justin Fashanu in 1990. After a brief retirement, he became the first openly gay man to compete in a top North American professional sports league when he played his first match for the LA Galaxy in May 2013. Rogers played college soccer at the University of Maryland, then signed with Heerenveen in August 2006 but made no first-team appearances. He left by mutual consent in February 2007 and returned to the US to sign for Columbus Crew, where he won an MLS Cup in 2008 and two Supporters' Shields in 2008 and 2009. In December 2011, he left Crew when his contract expired, moved to England, but injuries limited his appearances before he retired and returned to the US. In 2023, he became an executive producer for the Peabody Award-winning miniseries Fellow Travelers.

In Their Own Story

The press conference room hummed with a nervous energy different from any other signing announcement. Cameras flashed as Robbie Rogers stepped up to the podium, wearing the new LAFC crest on his chest. He spoke softly about Los Angeles being home, about family, and about the future of soccer. In that moment, amidst the buzz of the city's first-ever MLS team launch, it became clear this was more than a transfer; it was a statement. Outside, fans gathered at the stadium, holding signs of support, knowing history had arrived in yellow.

Reader's Guide

Robbie Rogers was born in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, to Theresa and Robert Hampton Rogers II. He has one brother and three sisters. He attended Mater Dei High School, played one season of college soccer at the University of Maryland, and signed his first professional contract with Heerenveen in August 2006. After leaving Heerenveen, he joined Columbus Crew in March 2007. He scored his first MLS goal on June 17, 2007. In 2008, he was named to the MLS Best XI and won the MLS Cup and Supporters' Shield. He left Crew in December 2011, joined Leeds United in January 2012, and made his debut on February 18, 2012, but suffered a head injury. He later played for the LA Galaxy, debuting in May 2013. He is a co-owner of Halsey, a menswear fashion company, and blogs about men's fashion.

Did You Know?

• Rogers was accepted to study at the London College of Fashion.
• He enjoys surfing, table tennis, and has a strong interest in music.
• His favorite athlete is Zlatan Ibrahimović.
• He designed and models for his menswear company Halsey.