Casey Phair Bio
Casey Yu-Jin Phair is a South Korean professional footballer who plays as a striker for the Damallsvenskan club Djurgården, on loan from Angel City FC, and the South Korea national team. Phair was the youngest player ever to feature in a FIFA Women’s World Cup, having made her debut at the age of 16 years and 26 days in 2023. A Korean American raised in the United States, she was the first multiracial footballer to play for South Korea at a World Cup.
Early Life and Background
Casey Yu-Jin Phair was born on 29 June 2007 in Anyang, Gyeonggi, South Korea, to an American father and a South Korean mother. Her family moved to the United States when she was just one month old. Phair spent her early years in Exeter, New Hampshire, before relocating to Warren Township, New Jersey. It was in Warren Township that she began her soccer journey, playing at the Pingry School and training at the Players Development Academy (PDA) in New Jersey. During her freshman year at the Pingry School in 2022, she had an impressive season, scoring 25 goals in 15 games and earning first-team all-conference honors. In 2023, she was recognized as the ECNL conference player of the year and was named an ECNL All-American for her club season with PDA.
Path to Soccer
Casey Phair’s soccer career began to take shape as she excelled in youth competitions. Her outstanding performances caught the attention of various clubs, leading to trials with local National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) teams, including NJ/NY Gotham FC and the Kansas City Current. Ultimately, she signed her first professional contract with Angel City FC on 18 January 2024, making her the youngest player ever to sign with the club. Following her strong performance in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, she made her debut for Angel City FC as a substitute in a Summer Cup match against Bay FC on 26 July 2024.
Casey Phair Career
Early Career (2024–2025)
Casey Phair’s professional career began with Angel City FC in 2024. She quickly made an impact, scoring her first goal for the team during the Coachella Valley Invitational preseason tournament on 22 February 2025. This goal was significant as it marked her first official scoring contribution to the club. On 18 April 2025, she made her NWSL debut as a substitute in a match against Gotham FC. Later that year, on 21 July 2025, Angel City signed her to a new three-year contract and loaned her to Djurgården, furthering her development in the Swedish league.
Breakthrough (2023–2024)
Casey Phair’s breakthrough moment came during the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where she made history as the youngest player to appear in a senior World Cup match at the age of 16 years and 26 days. She debuted as a substitute in South Korea’s opening game against Colombia on 25 July 2023. Throughout the tournament, she played in all three of South Korea’s group stage matches and made her first start in the final match against Germany, which ended in a 1–1 draw. Phair’s performance at the World Cup not only showcased her talent but also made her a prominent figure in women’s soccer.
Notable Works and Milestones
Casey Phair’s signature achievement includes becoming the youngest player to ever appear in a senior World Cup match. She also made headlines for being the first multiracial player to represent South Korea at a World Cup. In addition, on 26 October 2023, she scored her first senior goal and hat-trick in a match against Thailand during the 2024 AFC Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament, further establishing her as a rising star in women’s soccer.
Casey Phair Award Nominations
Throughout her career, Casey Phair has received recognition for her exceptional performances on the field, particularly during her youth career and her debut in international competitions.
Casey Phair Awards Won
Casey Phair has achieved notable accolades, including being named the ECNL conference player of the year in 2023 and receiving the ECNL All-American honor for her club season with PDA.
Casey Phair Family
Information about Casey Phair’s family is limited. She was born to an American father and a South Korean mother, and her family moved to the United States when she was an infant.
Personal Life
Casey Phair’s personal life remains largely private. As a young athlete focused on her burgeoning soccer career, she continues to balance her professional commitments with her education and personal development.