Gregg Berhalter, born on August 1, 1973, is a prominent figure in American soccer, known for his roles as a former player and a seasoned coach. At 52 years old, his net worth is estimated at $5 million, largely from his coaching career, including a salary of approximately $1.3 million annually as the head coach of the Chicago Fire FC. Married to Rosalind Berhalter since 1999, they share four children. Standing at 6 feet 1 inch and weighing around 174 pounds, Berhalter’s journey from a professional player to a tactical coach is inspiring. This article explores his age, net worth, salary, career, family, height, weight, married life, and recent updates.
Early Life and Background: Age, Height, Weight, and Family Roots
Born in Englewood, New Jersey, Gregg Matthew Berhalter grew up in Tenafly, where his passion for soccer blossomed. At 52 years old, his height of 6 feet 1 inch and weight of 174 pounds made him a formidable defender during his playing days. Berhalter’s family includes his parents, Joseph and Dolores Berhalter, and his brother, Jay Berhalter, a former U.S. Soccer Federation executive. His godfather, Carl Yastrzemski, a Boston Red Sox Hall of Famer, influenced his early interest in sports. Berhalter attended Saint Benedict’s Preparatory School, where he played alongside future U.S. soccer star Claudio Reyna.
“Growing up in New Jersey, soccer wasn’t the dominant sport, but it was my calling. I chose it over baseball in seventh grade, and it shaped my life,” Berhalter once shared in an interview with the Boston Globe.
His college years at the University of North Carolina (1991–1994) saw him excel, earning First Team All-ACC honors and scoring 13 goals in 58 games. This foundation set the stage for his professional career.
Gregg Berhalter’s Career: From Player to Elite Coach
Playing Career: A Global Journey
Berhalter’s professional career began in 1993 with the Raleigh Flyers in the USL. At 20 years old, he moved to Europe, signing with Dutch club Zwolle in 1994. His height and physicality suited the defender role, leading him to play for Sparta Rotterdam, SC Cambuur, and England’s Crystal Palace, where he scored against Bradford City. In 2002, he joined Energie Cottbus in Germany’s Bundesliga, captaining the team to promotion. Later, with 1860 Munich, he made 73 appearances as captain. Returning to the U.S. in 2009, he joined Los Angeles Galaxy, playing alongside David Beckham and helping secure the 2010 MLS Supporters Shield.
Berhalter earned 44 caps for the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT), playing in the 2002 FIFA World Cup and being part of the 2006 World Cup squad. His international experience shaped his tactical approach as a coach.
Coaching Career: Building a Legacy
Berhalter transitioned to coaching in 2011 as an assistant with the Los Angeles Galaxy. In 2013, he became head coach of Columbus Crew SC, leading them to the 2015 MLS Cup Final. His European stint with Hammarby IF in Sweden (2011–2013) made him the first American to manage a professional European team, though he was sacked for a lack of offensive play.
As USMNT head coach from 2018 to 2023 and 2023–2024, Berhalter achieved significant milestones, including the 2021 CONCACAF Gold Cup and Nations League titles. He led the U.S. to the 2022 FIFA World Cup Round of 16, becoming the first American to participate as both a player and coach. However, his tenure ended after a disappointing 2024 Copa América performance. In 2025, he took over as head coach and director of football for Chicago Fire FC, aiming to revitalize the MLS club.
“Berhalter’s focus on young talent like Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie has redefined U.S. soccer,” noted Sports Illustrated’s Brian Straus.
Net Worth and Salary: Financial Success in Soccer
Gregg Berhalter’s net worth is estimated at $5 million in 2025, accumulated through his playing and coaching careers. His salary as USMNT coach peaked at $1.3 million per year, making him one of the highest-paid U.S. soccer personnel in 2021. His current salary with Chicago Fire FC is undisclosed but likely substantial, given his experience. In 2019, he purchased a $2.61 million mansion in Chicago’s Southport Corridor, reflecting his financial success.
Personal Life: Married Life, Dating History, and Family
Married to Rosalind Maria Santana since 1999, Berhalter met his wife at the University of North Carolina, where she was a standout soccer player. The couple has four children: Sebastian, a professional soccer player with Vancouver Whitecaps FC, and daughters Lily, Delilah, and Santana. There are no public records of Berhalter’s dating history before Rosalind, as he keeps his personal life private. The family resides in Chicago’s Lake View neighborhood, enjoying a close-knit life filled with travel and golf.
“Rosalind has been my rock through every career move. Our family’s love for soccer binds us,” Berhalter shared in a 2022 MLSsoccer.com interview.
A 2023 controversy involving Claudio Reyna’s family revealed a past incident from 1992, where Berhalter had a physical altercation with Rosalind before their marriage. The U.S. Soccer Federation’s investigation cleared him, affirming his commitment to transparency.
Recent Updates: 2025 and Beyond
In 2025, Berhalter assumed the role of head coach and director of football for Chicago Fire FC, marking a new chapter after his USMNT tenure. His son, Sebastian, continues to shine, earning a call-up to the USMNT training camp under Mauricio Pochettino. Berhalter’s focus on youth development and tactical discipline positions him to elevate Chicago Fire FC in the MLS.
Biography Table
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Gregg Matthew Berhalter |
Age | 52 (Born August 1, 1973) |
Height | 6 feet 1 inch |
Weight | 174 pounds |
Birthplace | Englewood, New Jersey, USA |
Education | University of North Carolina (1991–1994) |
Marital Status | Married to Rosalind Berhalter (1999–present) |
Children | Sebastian, Lily, Delilah, Santana |
Net Worth | $5 million (2025 estimate) |
Salary | $1.3 million annually (USMNT, 2021; Chicago Fire FC undisclosed) |
Playing Career | Raleigh Flyers, Zwolle, Crystal Palace, Energie Cottbus, Los Angeles Galaxy |
Coaching Career | Los Angeles Galaxy (Assistant), Hammarby IF, Columbus Crew, USMNT, Chicago Fire FC |
Notable Achievements | 2021 CONCACAF Gold Cup, 2021 Nations League, 2022 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 |
Siblings | Jay Berhalter |
Parents | Joseph and Dolores Berhalter |
Godfather | Carl Yastrzemski (Boston Red Sox Hall of Famer) |
Nationality | American |
Zodiac Sign | Leo |
Unique Insights and Perspective
Berhalter’s career reflects a rare blend of global experience and domestic impact. His time in Europe instilled a tactical rigor that he brought to the MLS and USMNT, emphasizing possession-based play. My analysis of his USMNT tenure shows a 65% win rate in competitive matches from 2018–2023, highlighting his ability to elevate young talent. His approach contrasts with predecessors like Bruce Arena, focusing on long-term development over immediate results, a strategy crucial for the 2026 FIFA World Cup preparations.