Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz team Captain, Andre Blake, recently completed his process of naturalization, thereby becoming a citizen of the United States.
Recognized as a three-time MLS Goalkeeper of the Year, Blake successfully passed his naturalization exam earlier this month.
The ceremony, held on Monday, July 24, saw Blake, along with his wife and two children, swearing in as US citizens.
The family, who have made the US their home for the past 12 years, now hold dual citizenship of both Jamaica and the United States.
Overwhelmed by the momentous occasion, Blake expressed that becoming a US Citizen is “incredible”.
“It’s been my family’s home for the past 12 years. Our youngest was the only US citizen, and now all four of us become citizens. Having an American passport is a privilege, and I’m proud to be a US citizen, a Philadelphian, and of course, as always, Jamaican. It’s the best of both worlds, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds,” Blake continued.
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Head coach Jim Curtin’s praises for newly minted U.S. citizen, Andre Blake
Commenting on this significant milestone in Blake’s life, Philadelphia Union’s Head Coach Jim Curtin shared that Blake has been an “exemplary athlete and person, both on and off the field.”
“He’s a true Philadelphian already and has been for many years, and for him to now have official citizenship is special for him and his family. His leadership, commitment to his community, and incredible talent make him someone we want in our city and on our field forever. We extend a big congratulations to Andre, and we’re lucky to have him,” Curtain added.
Andre Blake’s football career
With a stellar record of 231 combined MLS regular season and Audi MLS Cup Playoffs appearances, Blake stands as the longest-tenured player since being drafted from the University of Connecticut in 2014.
Earlier this season, he surpassed former teammate Ray Gaddis for the most starts in team history.
In the previous year, Blake marked a significant milestone by becoming the first player in MLS history to win the MLS Goalkeeper of the Year title three times.
Blake’s extraordinary performance also earned him the 2022 John Wanamaker Athletic Award and a spot as a four-time MLS All-Star. His achievement as the first men’s soccer player to receive the prestigious Wanamaker award since its inception in 1961 further enhanced his career.
