Julian Hall: A Scoring Start That Recalls Pelé, and a Jersey Name That Honors His Mother

Three goals in his first three appearances for the United States, an achievement that places him alongside a remarkable piece of Pelé’s history. Yet for 18-year-old New York Red Bulls forward Julian Hall, his jersey carries an equally personal story: “Zakrzewski,” his mother’s maiden name, worn in gratitude for her sacrifices.

Julian Hall is introducing himself to international soccer through the language a striker knows best: goals.

The teenager scored in each of his first three senior appearances for the United States, against Peru, Chile and Mexico. According to the Red Bulls, he became the youngest player to accomplish that feat since Pelé did so for Brazil in 1957.

Behind the goals and records is a young man who wants to share his success with the mother who helped him reach this stage.

Why “Zakrzewski” Instead of “Hall”?

Supporters watching Hall will notice “Zakrzewski” on the back of his jersey. It is his mother’s maiden name and part of his full name: Julian Zakrzewski Hall.

His choice honors both her support and his Polish heritage.

“I’m shedding some light on my mom,” Hall explained after the match against Chile.

“She comes from a Polish background. She’s done a lot, sacrificed a lot for me to be on a stage like this. I want to kind of give back to her and shed some light on her.”

Growing up in New York City, Hall had his mother’s support as he pursued his professional ambitions. Today, her name accompanies him onto the field—a visible expression of gratitude.

Three Goals in His First Three Appearances

His goal against Mexico completed an exceptional opening sequence with the national team.

In the 3–0 victory, Hall opened the scoring in the 28th minute. Gio Reyna delivered a cross, the Mexican goalkeeper deflected it, and Hall reacted immediately, finishing with his right foot.

He became the third player in USMNT history to score in each of his first three appearances, joining Alexander Rae in 1937 and Eddie Johnson in 2004–05.

At 18 years and 194 days old, he also became the third-youngest American to score against Mexico.

The comparison with Pelé concerns this specific scoring achievement. For Hall, it marks an outstanding introduction to international soccer.

His scoring streak ended in the subsequent match against Canada, which the United States won 1–0, with Justin Ellis scoring the only goal.

From New York City to the Red Bulls’ Attack

Born on March 24, 2008, in New York City, Hall developed through the Red Bulls academy, where his finishing ability quickly stood out.

In 2023, he helped the club’s U-15 team win the MLS NEXT Cup and was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player. He also earned the Golden Boot at the Generation adidas Cup that year.

His MLS debut came on September 30, 2023, at just 15 years and 190 days old, making him the league’s second-youngest debutant at the time.

He scored his first MLS goal against Montréal on June 19, 2024.

A Breakthrough Season

The 2026 season has brought a major step forward. Hall has taken on greater responsibility in the Red Bulls’ attack and established himself as one of their standout young players.

On May 13, he scored all three goals in a 3–2 victory over Columbus Crew. At 18 years and 50 days old, he became the youngest player in MLS history to record a hat trick.

His performances earned him selection for the 2026 MLS All-Star Game. In August, the Red Bulls also announced a contract extension through the 2029–30 season, demonstrating their confidence in his development.

The United States or Poland?

Through his mother’s Polish heritage, Hall is also eligible to represent Poland.

Before joining the American camp, he explained that his long-term international decision was not yet settled. He appreciates the opportunity offered by the United States while maintaining a strong connection to his mother’s country.

According to Sports Illustrated, Poland have expressed interest in him. His senior appearances for the United States have been in friendlies, leaving a potential change of international representation open.

His goals have made his introduction to the USMNT memorable. His eventual decision remains a story both countries will follow closely.

A Name for the Fans, a Tribute to His Mother

On the field, Julian Hall is earning attention through his movement, instincts and finishing. On the back of his jersey, “Zakrzewski” tells another part of his story.

It is his way of acknowledging the sacrifices that helped make those moments possible.

The crowd celebrates Hall’s goals. He scores them carrying his mother’s name.