Insights from Christian Pulisic's Documentary

In the docuseries Pulisic, currently streaming on Paramount+, we see a new side of the leader of the United States men’s national team, Christian Pulisic. From his journey to Borussia Dortmund to his relationship with golfer Alexa Melton and everything in between, it unveils the intricacies that shape Pulisic.

For someone aspiring to be the best soccer player globally, the episodes reveal his journey and struggles throughout this process. Pulisic typically operates out of the public eye despite his soccer fame, making this docuseries quite revealing.

Here are some of the significant insights learned so far:

“It’s not like @pulisic reinvented himself, he found himself again.” ❤️
Christian Pulisic has embraced life in Milan and has soared as an @acmilan star 🇺🇸🇮🇹.
Binge the first FIVE episodes of PULISIC — NOW on Paramount+ 🍿 pic.twitter.com/vPUwms8lHP
— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) March 17, 2025.

The best player on the field doesn’t play for Barcelona?

Playing youth soccer for the United States set Pulisic on the map. He consistently played a year up in the youth national team and helped secure a tournament victory, garnering the MVP title.

During a tournament, scout Rob Moore noticed Pulisic playing against Barcelona and reported that Pulisic was the best player, resulting in his training spells with Arsenal and eventually leading to his time with Dortmund.

The transition to Germany was significant, aided by his father, Mark Pulisic, who supported his move. Mark challenged Christian saying, “If it doesn’t work, you’re not enjoying it, we go home.” This strategy drove Pulisic to succeed despite initial setbacks, including not being able to play professionally due to his age.

Meeting his partner

Christian shared details about how he met his girlfriend, golfer Alexa Melton, via Instagram. Pulisic playfully commented, “I slid in the DMs as they say.” Melton recounted her surprise at being contacted by someone so influential in soccer.

Their relationship has led to a balance in Pulisic’s life, helping him navigate emotions and pressures facing the scrutiny of being a superstar soccer player.

“When people start saying negative things about you at the club, then it’s clear that you’re not wanted there anymore, and that’s not a good feeling.”
— Christian Pulisic

Mental health struggles

Pulisic’s mental well-being took a hit during managerial changes at Chelsea. Adjusting to newfound expectations was difficult, as he shared, “I feel like to stay on that level and to reach that level, you have to have this level of confidence that sometimes I feel like I miss.”

Seeking support during challenging times proved essential for him, especially when soccer was suspended during the pandemic.

Chelsea exit

Pulisic’s pivotal role in winning the Champions League with Chelsea and the subsequent challenges brought about significant growth for him as well as the USMNT. Despite his success at Chelsea, he recognized it was time to move on, citing the pressures and instability he faced at the club.

Lazio death threats

Pulisic shared an alarming moment from a match against Lazio where he received death threats online after receiving two red cards, showing the intense scrutiny and pressure athletes face today. His father encouraged utilizing that experience as motivation, a sentiment echoed by Milan legend, Zlatan Ibrahimovic.