D.C. United Sign Ted Ku-DiPietro to a New Contract as a U22 Initiative Player Through 2027

September 12, 2024 – Major League Soccer (MLS)
D.C. United News Release

WASHINGTON, DC – D.C. United has signed Homegrown forward Ted Ku-DiPietro to a new contract as a U22 Initiative player through 2027 with an option in 2028. For more information about Major League Soccer’s U22 Initiative Players click HERE.

“Ted is an exceptional young talent who has put in the work season after season to get to where he is today,” Ally Mackay, D.C. United General Manager and Chief Soccer Officer, said. “He is an exciting player who has the ability to take on defenders to create goal scoring opportunities in the final third. The D.C. United Academy has a great history of developing young talent and creating pathways to reach the top level. Players like Ted are a testament to the organization and the success of the Pathway to Pro program. We are excited to sign Ted to this new contract and see his continued impact at the club.”

Ku-DiPietro joined D.C. United as the 17th Homegrown signing in club history on Jan. 13, 2022 from United Soccer League (USL) side Loudoun United FC. He made his debut for the Black-and-Red on March 19, 2022 against Toronto FC. In his first season with D.C. United, he appeared in 12 total matches and recorded 357 minutes played, including two Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup matches. The following season in 2023, Ku-DiPietro scored his first goal and a game-winner against Toronto FC on Feb. 25, 2023 in a 3-2 win at Audi Field. That season, he appeared in 27 matches, scoring five goals and recording three assists while accumulating 1,253 minutes played across all competitions. Ku-DiPietro ended the season with career-highs in games played, goals, and assists, leading him to be named to Major League Soccer’s 22 Under 22.

“Ted has developed in so many areas this season to become a more consistent presence in our team.” Troy Lesesne, D.C. United Head Coach, said. “Knowing he’s still in the early stages of his career, what excites us about Ted is his desire to challenge himself to keep improving. He sets a high bar for himself and will put in the work to achieve his next goals for himself and our club.”

In 2024, the Virginia-native has continued his development while also cementing himself as a regular starter with D.C. United. Ku-DiPietro has appeared in 25 matches (22 starts), scoring three goals and recording three assists across all competitions. He has created 21 chances this season while accumulating a career-high in minutes played with 1,678 and total…