SANDY, Utah – Real Salt Lake’s Nick Rimando will go down as the greatest goalkeeper to ever play in Major League Soccer. What separates him from the rest, is his uncanny ability to stay consistent throughout his 20 year MLS career.

At 5’10, Rimando was criticized for being too small. Goalkeepers are traditionally big, strong and athletic athletes. Not that Rimando isn’t strong and athletic, he just isn’t big in stature.

Big Save Rimando

Rimando is best known for his penalty kick saves, in fact, he holds the MLS record for most career saves on penalty kicks.

.@NickRimando coming up big (yet again). pic.twitter.com/wCkRznGBLJ

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) October 19, 2018

He also holds records in wins, shutouts, starts and minutes.

Rimando’s footwork is another reason why he has been able to have such a successful career. Goalkeepers are known for their ability to save shots, something Rimando can do with ease. But he is also able to control the ball and play outlet passes with his feet to players in space, often starting the attack.

The Final Chapter

On March 1st, one day before he was going to enter his 20th MLS season, Rimando announced that 2019 was going to be his last.

Thank you for everything. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/ftn2OmncLn

— Nick Rimando (@NickRimando) March 1, 2019

Rimando has also played a significant role within the community, investing in non-profit work, caring for local businesses and spending time with his beloved RSL fans. Rimando is the definition of a professional athlete.

This season will be a farewell tour for Rimando and his fans. A national icon in the sport of soccer and no doubt a first ballot National Soccer Hall of Fame inductee.

Thank you, Nick.

Real Salt Lake will play their first home game of the season on Saturday against the Vancouver Whitecaps at Rio Tinto Stadium. The game will begin at 4 p.m. and will be broadcast on the KSL TV app and KSLSports.com.