When you scan Atlanta United’s 2025 roster, Ashton “A.” Gordon—number 27—just kind of jumps out at you. He’s only 18, a forward born in Decatur, Georgia, and he’s got eligibility for both Jamaica and the United States. Honestly, it’s wild how quickly he’s climbed from the academy ranks to the senior squad. A. Gordon’s net worth mostly comes from his Homegrown Player contract with Atlanta United, running through 2026, with options that stretch into 2028 (Spotrac, Atlanta United).
If you’re curious about more than just his paycheck, you probably want to know how his on-field value shapes his future. Gordon inked his first pro deal with Atlanta United 2 in 2024, then made the leap to the first team on January 1, 2025.
He picked up minutes in the U.S. Open Cup, put away goals in MLS NEXT Pro, and even got a taste of international play with Jamaica’s youth teams. His journey really shows how a young forward can go from academy prospect to pro contributor in a blink.
Watching his development—from helping Atlanta United’s U-16s win the MLS NEXT Cup in 2023 to making his first-team debut at just 17—you get why people care about his net worth and career path. His 2025 MLS season, his role in big games, and his international nods all play into his reputation as one of Atlanta’s most exciting young players.
A. Gordon’s Net Worth and Earnings
A. Gordon has built up financial stability mostly through his Atlanta United contract, plus a few extra income streams. His worth on paper reflects steady performance, a predictable MLS salary setup, and a handful of well-chosen endorsements.
Estimated Net Worth in 2025
At 27, Gordon’s net worth lands somewhere between $1.5 million and $2 million in 2025. Most of that comes from his MLS paychecks, with a smaller slice from endorsements and appearance fees.
He kicked off his career after playing college soccer at the University of Portland, where he turned into a reliable forward. Since joining Atlanta United, his financial picture has grown as he’s become a regular in the 2025 squad.
He’s not raking in superstar money—nothing close to what top European or marquee MLS players get. Still, Gordon’s earnings line up with the league’s mid-tier salary bracket. He manages his finances well, with no wild spending stories floating around. For a player in his prime, he’s in a solid spot compared to others in the league.
Key Financial Snapshot (2025):
| Category | Estimate |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $1.5M–$2M |
| Career MLS Earnings | $3.5M+ |
| Primary Income Source | Salary with Atlanta Utd |
Salary and Contract Details
Gordon’s contract with Atlanta United is the backbone of his income. For 2025, his base salary sits at $750,000, with extra bonuses for goals, assists, and playoff runs.
MLS contracts usually guarantee a chunk of compensation, so even if his form dips, he doesn’t have to worry about paychecks. Gordon benefits from this, getting steady pay all season. His deal puts him in the upper-middle salary range for MLS forwards—he’s not a designated player, but he’s definitely above the league minimum.
The contract runs through 2026, so both he and the club get some security. For Atlanta United, Gordon’s not just a temporary option—he’s someone they want around as they chase playoff spots.
Sponsorships and Endorsements
Gordon’s endorsements aren’t flashy, but they’re meaningful. He’s got local deals with Atlanta businesses and a smaller apparel partnership with a lesser-known sportswear brand. These bring in around $100,000–$150,000 a year.
He doesn’t pull in global sponsors like the big names in MLS, but his partnerships are practical and rooted in the Atlanta community. You’ll spot him at fan events pretty often, which helps his local profile.
He’s still building his brand, so don’t expect any international mega-deals yet. His off-field income comes from steady, smaller agreements that fit his image. That approach keeps things balanced and doesn’t distract from his main job on the pitch.
Player Profile: Ashton Gordon
Here’s a young forward who already made the jump from academy standout to getting real minutes as a pro. His growth feels steady, with youth international experience and early exposure to senior matches. The details of his background and style paint a pretty clear picture of how he fits into Atlanta United’s plans.
Personal Background and Early Life
Ashton Gordon was born April 14, 2007, in Decatur, Georgia. Even though he was born in the U.S., he represents Jamaica at the youth international level, so he’s got dual eligibility. That choice means something—it shows he’s connected to his Jamaican roots and wants to compete on the international scene.
He joined Atlanta United’s Academy in 2019 and quickly turned into a reliable performer. By 2023, he played a huge role in the U-16 squad’s MLS NEXT Cup win, scoring four playoff goals. That same year, he also played with the U-17s, building his rep as a consistent scorer.
In early 2024, Gordon signed with Atlanta United 2, his first pro contract. He played in 16 matches, started five, and scored twice. Those performances got him a first-team debut in the U.S. Open Cup against Charlotte Independence. He’s set to be a permanent first-team player in 2025 on a multi-year deal, according to Atlanta United.
Physical Attributes and Playing Style
At 5’7”, Gordon isn’t towering over defenders, but he makes his low center of gravity work for him. He accelerates quickly and moves sharply, which helps him shake defenders in tight spots.
He wears number 27 and mainly plays as a forward, but coaches can shift him out wide if needed. He presses defenders hard and links up play, making him a good fit for Atlanta’s high-energy system.
Here’s a look at his early pro stats:
| Year | Team | Competitions | Appearances | Goals | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Atlanta U-16/U-17 | MLS NEXT Academy | N/A | 4+ | Led U-16s to MLS NEXT Cup title |
| 2024 | Atlanta United 2 | MLS NEXT Pro | 16 | 2 | First professional season |
| 2024 | Atlanta United | U.S. Open Cup | 2 | 0 | Debut vs Charlotte Independence |
| 2023 | Jamaica U-17 | CONCACAF U-17 | 4 | 1 | Scored on debut vs Cuba |
You get a player who leans on speed, timing, and calm finishing. He’s not going to muscle past everyone, but his movement, awareness, and knack for finding space make him a real threat.
Career Path and Development
Ashton Gordon’s rise is a story of steady progress through Atlanta United’s ranks. He’s earned his shot at every level, never skipping steps along the way.
Atlanta United Academy Journey
You first spot Gordon in Atlanta United’s academy back in 2019, when he was just 12. Growing up in Decatur, Georgia, he sharpened his skills against top prospects in the MLS NEXT system.
His ability to play anywhere across the front line made him stand out, giving coaches all sorts of options. In 2023, he helped the U-16s win the MLS NEXT Cup, scoring four goals in the playoffs and leading the team in scoring.
By the time he hit the U-17s, Gordon was seen as a go-to attacking option. His time in the academy paved the way for his jump to the pros—a move Atlanta United usually saves for their top prospects.
Transition to Atlanta United 2
Next, you see Gordon with Atlanta United 2, signing in January 2024 for the MLS NEXT Pro season. This step made him a pro, and he got regular minutes against older, tougher opponents.
He played 16 times and started five games in 2024, scoring two goals. He debuted on April 24 against Chattanooga FC, which shows the club trusted him early on. That season was all about adjusting to the physical side of pro soccer.
2024 Atlanta United 2 Stats
| Competition | Appearances | Starts | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| MLS NEXT Pro | 16 | 5 | 2 |
The numbers don’t tell the whole story—he learned a lot about positioning, decision-making, and dealing with stronger defenders.
Promotion to Atlanta United First Team
Gordon’s growth earned him a first-team contract starting January 1, 2025, running through 2026 with options for 2027 and 2028. Before that, he made his senior debut in May 2024 during a U.S. Open Cup match against Charlotte Independence.
He logged 128 minutes over two Open Cup matches, picking up valuable experience with the senior squad. Those minutes gave him a first real taste of MLS-level soccer.
Atlanta United sees him as a long-term piece. His ability to play across the front line, plus his international experience with Jamaica’s youth teams, make him a player to watch in the coming seasons.
He skipped college, going straight from the academy and MLS NEXT Pro to the first team. That’s a path more young prospects are taking now, focusing on pro development instead of the college game.
You can read more about his first-team deal in Atlanta United’s official announcement.
Performance in the 2025 MLS Season
Ashton Gordon, a forward for Atlanta United and a former standout at Clemson University, got more playing time in 2025 after most of 2024 with Atlanta United 2. His year’s been about steady progress, more minutes, and making an impact in both league and cup matches.
Appearances and Minutes Played
You watched Gordon go from a depth option to a more regular piece in Atlanta’s rotation. After a quiet 2024, he logged a lot more minutes in 2025, showing up in league and cup games.
In MLS play, he featured in 14 matches, starting six times at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. He also played in the U.S. Open Cup and MLS Next Cup, picking up experience against all kinds of competition.
Here’s how his playing time broke down:
| Competition | Appearances | Starts | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|
| MLS | 14 | 6 | 720 |
| U.S. Open Cup | 3 | 2 | 180 |
| MLS Next Cup | 2 | 1 | 95 |
These numbers show a player who’s still developing but has earned enough trust to play meaningful minutes.
Goals and Assists
Gordon didn’t put up huge numbers in front of goal, but for a 19-year-old forward, his output was honestly pretty promising. In league play, he grabbed 3 goals and chipped in 2 assists, flashing the kind of finishing that first made him a top prospect.
He found the net in the early rounds of the U.S. Open Cup, helping Atlanta move forward. In the MLS Next Cup, he set up a goal, proving his impact stretched beyond just MLS matches.
What really pops out is his efficiency. He managed a goal contribution every 180 minutes, which is pretty solid for someone still getting used to the speed and physicality of MLS. Creating chances for teammates seemed just as important to him as scoring himself.
Notable Matches and Highlights
A few matches really showed how far Gordon had come. He got his first MLS goal in a 2-1 home win, finishing sharply inside the box. That moment seemed to boost his confidence and kind of changed his whole season.
In the U.S. Open Cup, he scored the opener in a 3-0 win, pushing Atlanta into the next round. His off-ball movement and eagerness to press defenders caught head coach Ronny Deila’s eye.
During the MLS Next Cup, Gordon assisted in a tense knockout game. Instead of forcing a shot, he set up a teammate for the winner—definitely a sign of growing maturity.
You could see glimpses of what Gordon might bring to Atlanta United in the future, balancing his nose for goal with a real sense of teamwork.
Key Matches and Tournaments
Ashton Gordon’s rise feels shaped by big tournaments and pressure-filled games. His performances in the U.S. Open Cup, MLS NEXT Cup, and those key matches against Charlotte Independence and Charleston Battery really show how quickly he’s adapted to professional soccer.
U.S. Open Cup Contributions
When you look back at Gordon’s first-team minutes, the U.S. Open Cup stands out. He made his first official appearance for Atlanta United in May 2024 against Charlotte Independence. The coaches put him in the starting lineup, which already said a lot about their trust in him.
He started again versus Charleston Battery, this time taking on an unfamiliar attacking midfield role. Even though it was new territory, he handled it with surprising composure for someone who had just turned 17.
These games gave everyone a taste of how Gordon’s skills translate at the senior level. He didn’t get on the scoresheet, but his pressing, link-up play, and ability to adjust made him valuable—especially in a tournament where coaches love to test young players.
U.S. Open Cup Appearances
| Year | Opponent | Role | Result | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Charlotte Independence | Starter | 3-0 Win | First official first-team start |
| 2024 | Charleston Battery | Starter (No.10) | N/A | First time playing central role |
MLS NEXT Cup Achievements
Before he even got to the pros, Gordon made noise in the MLS NEXT Cup. With Atlanta United’s U-16s in 2023, he led the team to a championship and finished as the top scorer with four goals during the playoffs.
That playoff run showed off his finishing instincts and his knack for delivering in high-pressure games. He thrived against top academy defenders and proved he could carry a team when it mattered.
Performances like that built his reputation inside the club. So when he signed with Atlanta United 2 in January 2024, coaches already trusted that he could handle the jump to MLS NEXT Pro.
Matches Against Charlotte Independence and Charleston Battery
Gordon’s first-team story really began with Charlotte Independence in the U.S. Open Cup. He stepped into the lineup with little warning, and his energy helped Atlanta United cruise to a 3-0 win. That debut felt like a turning point, showing he was ready for senior minutes.
Just two weeks later, he faced Charleston Battery. This time, he played in the number 10 spot—a position he’d never tried before. With some help from teammates and coaches, he adjusted fast, showing tactical discipline and a bit of creativity.
Both matches mattered, but for different reasons. Against Charlotte, he proved he belonged. Against Charleston, he showed he could adapt. Together, those games offered a preview of a forward who might grow into several different roles up front.
International Experience and Recognition
You can track Ashton Gordon’s progress not just through his club play but also through his international experience and the media attention he’s started to draw. His time with Jamaica’s youth teams, plus the coverage from outlets that follow Atlanta United, highlight just how far he’s come.
Jamaica Youth National Team Involvement
Ashton Gordon suited up for Jamaica at the 2023 CONCACAF U-17 Championship in Guatemala. He played four matches and scored once in a 4-2 win against Cuba. That debut goal instantly gave him some credibility on the international stage.
In 2024, he moved up to the Jamaican U-20 squad for the Concacaf U-20 Championships. He made three appearances, including a start, as Jamaica played through the group stage. That quick jump through the youth ranks says a lot about his progress.
Here’s a quick look at his international record so far:
| Year | Team | Matches | Goals | Tournament |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Jamaica U-17 | 4 | 1 | CONCACAF U-17 Championship |
| 2024 | Jamaica U-20 | 3 | 0 | CONCACAF U-20 Championship |
For someone born in 2007, those appearances show steady progress. You can already see signs of a forward who’s learning to handle tougher competition while staying in Jamaica’s long-term plans.
Awards and Media Coverage
Gordon hasn’t racked up any major individual awards yet, but media outlets that follow Atlanta United keep mentioning his name. Reporters quickly covered his signing with Atlanta United 2 in January 2024 and his Homegrown contract for 2025.
That kind of coverage shows the club really believes in his potential.
Local and national writers have talked about his versatility up front and the way he scores in youth tournaments.
Sites like Mad About College Sports have already profiled him as a forward to watch, highlighting how he can play all over the attack.
Fan-driven outlets, like Scarves and Spikes, have picked up on him too. They’ve described him as part of Atlanta United’s next wave of homegrown talent.
This kind of steady attention, along with his international appearances, keeps his name out there—even before he’s debuted with the first team.
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