Landon Donovan Opens Up About His Journey and Mental Health Struggles
Landon Donovan is often remembered as one of the most celebrated male soccer players in the United States. His career highlights include reaching the quarterfinals of the 2002 World Cup and playing a critical role in the 2010 tournament by scoring a dramatic overtime goal against Algeria, which propelled the team to the knockout stage.
Yet, alongside these peak moments, Donovan faced significant challenges throughout his career.
In his upcoming memoir, Landon: A Memoir, set to release on Tuesday, he reflects on his struggles with depression and the ups and downs of his life as a professional athlete. In a recent conversation, Donovan shared insights into his mental health battles.
“I’ve experienced two different kinds of depression,” Donovan said. “In therapy, I’ve come to realize that I had mild depression for much of my life, and it’s something I’m still managing today. Some mornings I wake up feeling down, but I’ve learned how to cope with it.” He described severe depressive episodes that were immensely difficult to overcome, likening that feeling to an overwhelming weight that makes daily life a challenge.
Donovan emphasized that therapy has been a crucial part of his recovery process. He refers to his support system as the “Three M’s”—medication, meditation, and the presence of his mother. “Medication has been a game changer for me,” he explained. “But it’s also about having people like my mom around. She’s been so important.” Thankfully, he noted that it’s been a while since he experienced a major depressive episode, crediting his coping mechanisms for helping him maintain a sense of calm.
The former soccer star faced intense scrutiny after the 2006 World Cup, where he struggled to perform, leading to harsh criticism in the media. Additionally, he was omitted from the 2008 Olympic team, which added to his struggles.
He’s relieved that, unlike today where social media amplifies public opinion, he didn’t have to face the vitriol that modern athletes often do. “I think I was very fortunate in that regard,” he acknowledged. “If I had experienced that level of scrutiny back then, it would have been overwhelming.”
Donovan noted that public perception of fame and success can be misleading. “People assume that if you’re in the spotlight, everything is easy,” he said, recognizing that while fame does come with its benefits, it also poses unique challenges.
Now retired, Donovan is regarded as one of the finest players in Major League Soccer history, with numerous Gold Cup victories and MLS Cup titles to his name.
Looking ahead to the 2026 World Cup, he reflected on how his definition of success has shifted. “For me, success today is peace,” he explained. “Whether I’m spending time with my kids, traveling, or playing golf, that’s when I find true happiness.” He reminisced about his upbringing, acknowledging the contrasts in his life now compared to his childhood experiences.
Additionally, he shared poignant memories regarding his father, who passed away recently. “My dad is a significant presence in this book,” Donovan said, highlighting their complicated relationship. “I was there when he passed, and it really put things into perspective for me.” He realizes how essential it is to focus on what really matters each day.
