Brief Introduction of Collin Martin
Collin Martin is a distinguished American professional soccer player, currently showcasing his talents as a midfielder for North Carolina FC in the USL Championship. His career is marked by a dynamic presence in the midfield, having played for several notable clubs, including D.C. United and Minnesota United FC in Major League Soccer (MLS). Martin is widely recognized not only for his technical skills, vision, and versatility on the pitch but also for his significant impact off the field. In June 2018, he made history by publicly coming out as gay, making him the only openly gay male athlete in any of America’s major professional sports leagues at the time. This courageous act cemented his role as a prominent and inspirational figure for LGBTQ+ representation in professional sports. Beyond his athletic achievements, Martin is a dedicated advocate for inclusivity and a passionate art enthusiast, demonstrating a multifaceted personality that extends beyond the realm of soccer.
Collin Martin Overview
| Full Name | Collin Martin |
| Date of Birth | November 9, 1994 |
| Age(as of 2025) | 31 |
| Birthplace | Chevy Chase, Maryland, U.S. |
| Profession | Professional Soccer Player |
| Husband/Wife | Not publicly available |
| Family | Information not disclosed |
| Relationship/Affairs(GF/BF) | In a relationship |
| Net Worth | Not publicly available; estimated career earnings through 2026 were over $596,000. |
Early Life and Education of Collin Martin
Born and raised in Chevy Chase, Maryland, Collin Martin’s journey in soccer began at a young age, nurtured by a supportive environment that allowed his athletic talents to flourish. His formal soccer development took a significant step forward when he joined the D.C. United Academy during the 2009–10 season as a promising 14-year-old in the under-16 category. Martin quickly distinguished himself within the academy’s ranks. In his second season with the U16s, he showcased his goal-scoring prowess by leading the team with 13 goals, a feat that helped his squad finish at the top of their group in the U.S. Soccer Development Academy. His exceptional performance led to a promotion to the under-18 team the following season, where he continued to be a key offensive player, leading the team with 11 goals. His impressive displays at the youth level did not go unnoticed, earning him valuable playing time with the D.C. United Reserves in MLS Reserve League action.
Upon graduating from Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School, Martin continued to balance his athletic and academic pursuits. He committed to Wake Forest University, where he played for the Demon Deacons’ men’s soccer team for the 2012 season. In his single season with Wake Forest, Martin made a significant impact, scoring one goal and providing a team-leading six assists. His stellar performance as a freshman earned him a spot on the All-ACC Freshman Team. Despite a promising collegiate career ahead of him, the call to the professional level was strong. After one year at Wake Forest, Martin decided to embark on his professional soccer journey. However, his commitment to education did not wane. After turning professional, he transferred his credits to George Washington University. He diligently attended classes part-time for four years and completed his degree with a final year of online studies while playing in Minnesota. In 2019, Collin Martin graduated with a degree in history, a testament to his dedication and discipline both on and off the field. His academic pursuits also nurtured a deep interest in art history, leading him to become an avid art collector.
Collin Martin’s Career
Collin Martin’s professional soccer career began at the age of 18, a testament to his prodigious talent developed at the D.C. United Academy. On July 10, 2013, he officially signed a homegrown player contract with D.C. United, becoming the sixth such signing in the club’s history. To gain valuable first-team experience, Martin was sent on loan to the club’s USL Pro affiliate, the Richmond Kickers, just a week later. He made his professional debut for D.C. United on August 3, 2013, in a 3-1 victory against the Montreal Impact, where he came on as a substitute and recorded his first career assist. He would go on to have several loan spells with Richmond between 2013 and 2015 while making sporadic appearances for D.C. United in MLS, the U.S. Open Cup, and the CONCACAF Champions League.
In January 2017, a new chapter in Martin’s career began when he was traded to MLS expansion side Minnesota United FC. He made his debut for the Loons on March 25, 2017. During his time with Minnesota, Martin became a more regular contributor in the top flight of American soccer. It was also during this period that he made the landmark decision to publicly come out as gay in June 2018. In 2019, seeking more consistent playing time, he went on loan to Hartford Athletic in the USL Championship. At the conclusion of the 2019 season, Minnesota United announced they would not be exercising his contract option, making him a free agent.
In February 2020, Martin found a new home with the San Diego Loyal SC for their inaugural season in the USL Championship. He quickly became an integral part of the team, making over 100 appearances during his four seasons with the club. His time in San Diego was marked by both on-field success and a significant moment of advocacy. In a match in September 2020, Martin was the target of a homophobic slur from an opponent. In a powerful act of solidarity, his team, led by manager Landon Donovan, walked off the field in protest, forfeiting the match. After the San Diego Loyal folded following the 2023 season, Martin’s experience and quality in midfield were highly sought after. In December 2023, it was announced that he had signed a two-year contract with North Carolina FC, marking the club’s return to the USL Championship for the 2024 season. His veteran presence and leadership were seen as key assets for the newly promoted team. On the international stage, Martin has represented the United States at the U-20 level.
Collin Martin Personal Life & Family
Collin Martin was raised in an observant Episcopalian family in Chevy Chase, Maryland. While details about his immediate family, such as his parents’ and any siblings’ names, are not widely publicized, it is known that he came out to his family and friends as gay many years before his public announcement. He has consistently spoken of the kindness and acceptance he received from his inner circle, which played a crucial role in his decision to share his story with the wider world.
In June 2023, Martin shared that he was in a long-distance relationship with his boyfriend, whom he met through Instagram. He recounted how their connection began with mutual “likes” on photos, leading to a conversation after his now-boyfriend commented on one of his stories. They first met in person after one of Martin’s games in San Antonio, as his boyfriend drove from Austin to see him play. Martin has expressed that his partner makes a significant effort to travel and see him, given the demanding schedule of a professional athlete.
Beyond his relationships, Martin has cultivated a life rich with interests outside of soccer. He is a passionate art collector, a hobby that stems from his academic studies in history at George Washington University. This intellectual curiosity and appreciation for the arts provide a balance to the physical demands of his profession. Martin has also spoken about his enjoyment of the beach and water sports, indicating a well-rounded and active lifestyle.
Awards and Achievements of Collin Martin
- All-ACC Freshman Team (2012)
- Outsports Male Hero of the Year Award (2018)
- Minnesota United Courage Award (2018)
- Harvey Milk Champion of Equality Award (2023)
- USL Impact Player of the Year (2021)
Collin Martin Net Worth and Income
As of 2025, Collin Martin’s exact net worth is not publicly available. Estimating the net worth of professional soccer players can be challenging due to the private nature of contracts and endorsement deals. However, it has been reported that his career earnings in Major League Soccer through the 2026 season amounted to over $596,000. This figure does not include his salaries from his time in the USL Championship with clubs like San Diego Loyal and his current team, North Carolina FC, nor does it account for any personal investments or endorsements. His income is primarily derived from his professional soccer contracts. Additionally, Martin has engaged in brand partnerships, which contribute to his overall financial portfolio. He has also committed to pledging a percentage of his salary to charitable initiatives, such as Common Goal’s Play Proud program.
Legacy and Influence
Collin Martin’s legacy and influence extend far beyond his accomplishments on the soccer field. While he is a respected and technically skilled midfielder, his most profound impact has been in the realm of LGBTQ+ advocacy in professional sports. On June 29, 2018, by publicly coming out as gay, Martin broke down significant barriers. At the time, he was the only openly gay male athlete in any of the five major American professional sports leagues and the only active openly gay male professional soccer player. This act of courage was not just a personal milestone but a pivotal moment for LGBTQ+ visibility and acceptance in a domain often perceived as hostile or unwelcoming to queer individuals.
His decision to live his truth authentically has made him an inspirational role model for countless athletes, young and old, who may be struggling with their own identity. Martin has embraced this role, using his platform to advocate for more inclusive and welcoming environments in sports. He has shown that an athlete can be both openly gay and a successful professional, challenging outdated stereotypes and fostering a more accepting culture within the sport.
The incident in 2020, where his San Diego Loyal teammates walked off the field in protest after he was subjected to a homophobic slur, further solidified his influence. This powerful display of allyship, broadcast to a wide audience, sent an unequivocal message that homophobia has no place in soccer. Martin’s handling of the situation, choosing to use it as a teaching moment rather than shying away from it, demonstrated immense character and a commitment to creating lasting change. His work with organizations like Common Goal, where he pledges a portion of his salary to promote LGBTQ+ inclusion in soccer, is a tangible example of his dedication to this cause. Ultimately, Collin Martin’s legacy will be that of a talented athlete who had the courage to be himself and, in doing so, paved the way for a more inclusive and accepting future for all in the world of sports.
Interesting Facts about Collin Martin
- He is an avid art collector, with a particular interest in art history, a passion that developed during his university studies.
- While playing professionally, he earned a degree in history from George Washington University in 2019.
- He represented the United States at various youth levels, including the U-14, U-15, U-17, and U-20 national teams.
- Martin became the sixth homegrown player to sign with D.C. United in the club’s history.
- A mural of Collin Martin was unveiled in the Hillcrest neighborhood of San Diego in March 2023 as part of a collaboration between the San Diego Loyal and local street artists.
- He met his boyfriend through the social media platform Instagram.
Controversies
The most significant controversy involving Collin Martin occurred on September 30, 2020, during a USL Championship match between his team, San Diego Loyal, and Phoenix Rising FC. In the first half, Martin was subjected to a homophobic slur by Phoenix midfielder Junior Flemmings. After reporting the incident to the referee, who allegedly misinterpreted the comment, the San Diego Loyal team, under the leadership of manager Landon Donovan, made the decision to walk off the field at the beginning of the second half in protest, thereby forfeiting the match which was crucial for their playoff hopes. The incident drew widespread condemnation of homophobia in sports and praise for the principled stand taken by Martin and his team. Following an investigation, Junior Flemmings was banned for six games and fined an undisclosed amount.
Social Media Presence
- Instagram – Not publicly available
- Twitter – Not publicly available
- YouTube – Not publicly available
Final Words about Collin Martin
Collin Martin’s career is a compelling narrative of athletic perseverance and profound personal courage. As he continues his professional journey as a key midfielder for North Carolina FC, his story is one that resonates both on and off the pitch. The Collin Martin biography is not just about a soccer player; it’s about a trailblazer who has irrevocably changed the landscape of professional sports for the better. His decision to live openly and authentically has had an immeasurable impact, offering hope and inspiration to a generation of athletes. While the Collin Martin wiki pages and stats sheets will rightfully detail his on-field contributions—his vision, his passing accuracy, his tireless work rate—his true legacy lies in his unwavering commitment to equality and inclusion. He has demonstrated that an athlete’s worth is not solely defined by their performance in the arena, but also by their character and their willingness to stand for something greater than themselves. As he moves forward in his career and life, Collin Martin will undoubtedly continue to be a voice for change, a respected competitor, and a powerful symbol of progress in the world of professional sports.