Christian Pulisic Scores Backheel from Girlfriend’s Assist

Christian Pulisic swaps Milan red for casual five-a-side

Christian Pulisic enjoyed a rare break from AC Milan pre-season and USMNT duty by joining a local five-a-side match in California. The Rossoneri playmaker lined up alongside girlfriend and rising pro golfer Alexa Melton, giving supporters a glimpse of his lighter side away from elite competition.

Golfer Melton delivers a pinpoint pass

Midway through the scrimmage, Melton drifted into midfield and slid a clever reverse ball between two defenders. Pulisic, timing his run perfectly, met the pass with an audacious back-heel that spun beyond the goalkeeper. The move instantly went viral on social media, prompting fans to label it Melton’s “first professional assist.”

Why Pulisic missed the Gold Cup

While the USMNT advanced to the Gold Cup semi-finals, head coach B. J. Callaghan chose to rest marquee names such as Pulisic, Weston McKennie and Folarin Balogun after a gruelling Nations League campaign. The decision allows the 24-year-old to recharge before Stefano Pioli’s squad reconvenes for Milan’s tour of the United States later this month.

Fitness and fun in equal measure

Pulisic’s cameo kept him sharp without the intensity of Serie A training. Sources close to the player say he continues to follow a personalised programme, ensuring he reports to Milanello in peak condition. The friendly run-out also showcased his chemistry with Melton, who has caddied for the winger at charity golf events and now returned the favour on the pitch.

Quick opinion

A laid-back five-a-side may not match the San Siro buzz, but seeing Pulisic smiling, scoring and supporting women’s sport alongside Melton underlines why he remains the face of U.S. soccer: talent, marketability and genuine joy in the game.