Diego Luna: A Journey of Self-Discovery and Resilience

omidbasir- From the outset of his public career, Diego Luna has consistently embraced his authentic self. His body, adorned with tattoos, tells a story—each marking a significant moment in his life. He began this journey of ink during his youth, as he revealed in an interview with GOAL in January.

For Luna, these tattoos represent a commitment to both himself and the sport of soccer. The game has propelled him beyond his wildest dreams, allowing him to discover aspects of his identity he had never fully recognized.

Prior to his rise to fame, Luna struggled with shyness, working part-time in a coffee shop to build his confidence and interpersonal skills. On the field, he often wore a mask, but over time, the distinctions between his on-field persona and off-field self have blurred. This award not only acknowledges his achievements but also highlights the journey he has shared with the public.

“This year has been centered around individual mental health,” he reflects. “It’s about moving from struggle to seeking help, feeling better, and ultimately being proud of what I’ve overcome.” Luna sees his platform as an opportunity to spread awareness.

Experiencing highs in his career is simple, yet Luna acknowledges the importance of addressing the lows. Despite a stellar year, he understands the necessity of recognizing the struggles that accompany success.

The triumphs are evident: a broken nose during January camp earned him a place in the US Men’s National Team (USMNT), and his performance in the Gold Cup showcased his skills with three crucial goals. Most recently, he scored against Uruguay, reinforcing his standing among the elite in international soccer.

However, underneath the accolades lie more profound challenges. Luna openly discusses his family dynamics, his son’s well-being, and the pressures of the sport. He candidly admits that recounting his struggles would take significantly longer than celebrating his successes.

One poignant moment came after helping Real Salt Lake (RSL) reach the MLS Playoffs, only to face an abrupt end with a loss to the Portland Timbers. The emotional toll of this defeat was palpable; Luna yearned for the chance to continue competing.

In the weeks following that loss, he showed up daily at RSL’s facility, remaining committed to his training despite the solitude. “It’s a down when I show up every single day, grinding alone in the dark. People saw my performance against Uruguay, but few recognized the work that preceded it,” he states.

His dedication did not go unnoticed. Early in the year, Luna earned the respect of USMNT Head Coach Mauricio Pochettino, who praised his bravery during January camp. Such performances propelled Luna into a more significant role, where he became a key player, contributing more goals than any other squad member.

“Each cap feels better than the last,” he expresses. “This feeling is among the happiest in my life.” For Luna, scoring goals transcends mere statistics; it embodies achievement and growth, not just for himself but for his family’s future as well.

As his offseason commenced shortly after his goal against Uruguay, he carried the momentum of that achievement into his break. Reflecting on 2024, which appeared remarkable from an outsider’s perspective, Luna admitted to feeling unsatisfied. “I believe this was merely average for me. I need to improve,” he stated resolutely.

He expressed confidence that 2025 would be even better, aiming to enhance not just his stats, but also his mental and physical health, and relationships. “Every year, my goal is to do better. I strive for improvement in all areas of my life.”

As the World Cup approaches, Luna is keenly aware of the stakes, understanding that his performance in 2026 could secure his involvement. Yet, he balances this ambition with a focus on his personal life.

“This offseason is my most exciting and essential yet,” he affirms. “I’m treating it as my preseason, blending family time with hard work. This is not just an offseason; it’s a crucial phase that could lead to an incredible year.”

Luna’s mindset has already propelled him to new heights in 2025, as he continues to grow with the USMNT and openly embrace his identity. Now, with the upcoming challenges of 2026 on the horizon, he is ready to confront whatever comes next, staying true to himself every step of the way.