Landon Donovan Opens Up About Hair Loss Journey and New Hair System

AUSTIN, Texas – Former U.S. men’s national team star Landon Donovan, known for his record achievements in soccer, shared his experience with hair loss during a recent trip to Texas. Donovan, who has spent over a decade as a sports icon, stepped out at a downtown hotel on Oct. 21, 2025, ready for the U.S. vs. Ecuador friendly match, sporting new hair that marks a significant personal transformation.

Throughout his career, Donovan struggled with thinning hair and underwent two hair restoration procedures. The latter became public when cameras caught him with a shaved head during Euro 2024 broadcasts. Donovan took to social media to reveal his intention to explore a hair system, essentially a wig, to regain his confidence regarding his appearance.

In a heartfelt video shared with his fans, Donovan stated, “I need your help. I’ve been dealing with hair loss since I was 18. I tried various methods, but nothing worked.” He humorously added, “My options are: go bald, leave it how it is, or try a hair system. I’d rather not go bald.”

Following this announcement, Donovan posted another video showcasing him getting the hair system. He emphasized how encouraging messages from followers inspired him to be open about his hair struggles, stating, “It’s allowed me to be vulnerable and open up about my process.”

Throughout his career, Donovan has been open about struggles including mental health issues and has advocated for mental health support. He remarked about the positive responses to his hair-related posts, noting, “I had no idea how many people deal with this and feel like I did. The messages I’ve received have been powerful and motivating.”

Donovan’s journey with hair loss started at 20, after a memorable interaction with fans who taunted him with chants of “Rogaine!” at a game. Though he responded playfully, the heckling highlighted an insecurity he carried throughout his career. He recalled past hair restoration attempts that didn’t yield the results he hoped for.

Now, with his new hair, Donovan expressed his confidence stating, “I feel handsome. I’ve never experienced this before.” He noted the importance of discussing such personal matters publicly, both for himself and for others who might be in similar situations, hoping to inspire them to seek solutions for their insecurities.

As he prepared for the game against Ecuador, Donovan summed up his experience, “We’re all just people struggling. It’s nice to feel confident again, and I hope others can find that, too.”