Walker Zimmerman

Player Information

Walker Dwain Zimmerman (born May 19, 1993) is an American professional soccer player who plays as a center-back for Major League Soccer club Nashville SC and the United States national team. A native of Lawrenceville, Georgia, Zimmerman played two seasons in college with the Furman Paladins before signing a Generation Adidas deal with Major League Soccer. He was then selected in the 2013 MLS SuperDraft by FC Dallas as the 7th overall pick. Initially struggling for playtime due to injuries, Zimmerman established himself as a regular starter in 2016. He started in 38 matches as FC Dallas completed the double, winning the Supporters' Shield and the U.S. Open Cup.
Full Name :
Walker Dwain Zimmerman
Birthdate :
19 May 1993
Birthplace :
Lawrenceville, Georgia, United States
Gender :
Male
Height (cm) :
190
Nationality :
United States
Parents :
David Zimmerman (Father), Becky Zimmerman (Mother)
Status :
Married
Partner :
Sally Zimmerman
Education :
Brookwood High School (High School), Furman University (College)
Career Started :
2013
Notable Achievements :
CONCACAF Gold Cup Winner (2021), CONCACAF Nations League Winner (2023), Runner-up (2019, 2025)
Current Team :
Nashville SC
Previous Teams :
FC Dallas (From 2013, To 2017), Los Angeles FC (From 2018, To 2019)
Drafted :
2013
Drafted by :
FC Dallas
Active Status :
From - 2013, To - Present
Contract :
Contract Year 2022 to 2025

Biography

Walker Zimmerman is a highly regarded Major League Soccer player, known for his impressive defensive abilities and leadership with Nashville SC. He has earned multiple accolades, including the MLS Defender of the Year award in 2021 and a spot in the MLS Best XI for four consecutive years. Zimmerman’s career is marked by notable contributions to his team’s success, making him a key figure in the league. Uncover more about his path and accomplishments as you investigate further.

Early Life

Walker Zimmerman developed a passion for sports during his childhood, influenced by his two older brothers. He played youth soccer at a local club in Gwinnett, Georgia, where he began honing his skills on the field.

Zimmerman later attended Furman University, where he stood out as a player, earning All Conference honors in 2011 while competing for the Furman Paladins.

His upbringing was also shaped by a strong family background, with his father serving as a pastor for 21 years, highlighting the values of discipline and commitment instilled in him from a young age.

Family Life

Walker Zimmerman and his wife Sally celebrated a notable milestone in their family life with the arrival of their initial child, Tucker.

Growing up in a sports-oriented family, Walker was influenced by his two older brothers, Dawson and Carter, who shared his passion for athletics. His parents, Becky and David, played a crucial role in his development, especially with David serving as a pastor for 21 years, which instilled strong values of faith and community in Walker.

He met Sally while attending Furman University, where he also played college soccer, highlighting the importance of education and personal relationships in his life.

The Zimmerman family enjoys spending quality time together, partaking in activities like golfing and participating in community events.

Career

Walker Zimmerman has established himself as a prominent figure in Major League Soccer (MLS) during his four seasons with Nashville SC, where he has been a key defensive anchor.

His exceptional skills on the field were recognized when he won the MLS Defender of the Year award in 2021, making him the initial defender to achieve this accolade in over a decade.

Zimmerman’s consistency is further highlighted by his inclusion in the MLS Best XI for four consecutive years from 2019 to 2022.

In the 2022 season, he played a crucial role in Nashville SC’s defensive expertise, contributing to the team allowing the fewest road goals in the league, with only 20 conceded.

Throughout his career, Zimmerman has also been part of championship-winning teams, securing the MLS Supporters Shield with LAFC in 2019 and FC Dallas in 2016.

Net Worth

Walker Zimmerman’s net worth is estimated at $1 million, primarily from his professional soccer contracts and endorsements.

As a designated player for Nashville SC, Zimmerman earns an annual salary exceeding $1 million.

Throughout his career, he has had notable earnings, including approximately $1.2 million during the 2020 season, $1.1 million in 2021, and $1.3 million in 2022.

His accolades, such as back-to-back MLS Defender of the Year awards and participation in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, improve his marketability and potential for future earnings.