D. Badji D.C. United Forward #14 Player Profile and Season Highlights
Dominique Badji is off to a fresh start as a forward for D.C. United, rocking the #14 kit after inking a deal through 2026. If you’re a Black-and-Red fan—or just someone who likes to keep tabs on MLS—Badji’s name probably rings a bell for his relentless work rate and clever movement. He’s bounced around a few clubs, sure, but now he’s here in Washington, ready to inject some life and know-how up front after a stint in Turkey’s second division.
Born in Senegal, Dominique Joël Badji built his reputation as a dependable attacker. At 32, he brings leadership and a knack for finding space in the box. D.C. United needs his sharp instincts and proven scoring touch as they chase more goals this season.
If you’re into numbers, check out these recent stats:
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| Season | Club | League | Apps | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Bandirmaspor | TUR 2 | 25 | 8 |
| 2022 | FC Cincinnati | MLS | 25 | 4 |
| 2021 | Colorado Rapids | MLS | 12 | 5 |
Want more on his journey? Here’s the official announcement and his player profile.
Contents
Player Profile and Current Role
Every time Badji steps on the pitch for D.C. United, you see him wearing #14 and bringing a direct, no-nonsense approach to the forward line in MLS.
His pace, relentless hustle, and experience shape not just his own performance, but the energy of the guys around him.
Position and Playing Style
You’ll mostly spot Badji working as a center forward, pressing high and leading the charge for D.C. United. He doesn’t just wait for service—he creates chances with his movement and pure effort.
He loves to stretch defenses, making those smart runs that open up lanes for his teammates. He’s got the speed to get behind defenders and the strength to hold them off.
His hold-up play lets the midfield push up and join the attack. There’s no overthinking—he wants to get the ball forward, keep things moving, and capitalize on transition moments.
He uses his speed to ignite counters and puts defenders under pressure with his pressing. That effort high up the field can really rattle an opponent.
Squad Number and Significance
Badji picked #14, a number with a bit of history for energetic, versatile forwards. For him, it’s about showing he’s both a senior presence and a real attacking threat.
The #14 jersey at D.C. United has a legacy, and now Badji brings his own flavor—gritty, reliable, and always up for the fight.
Younger players see him leading the line and know what professionalism and intensity look like. Coaches count on his adaptability, whether he’s starting or coming off the bench.
He brings a steady hand to a squad that’s got a mix of seasoned vets and up-and-comers. In today’s MLS, a #14 with Badji’s drive is gold, especially when matches get tight.
Physical Attributes and Skills
Badji stands about six feet tall, blending height with a strong build and real speed. That combo helps him battle defenders and win balls in the air when United pushes up.
He accelerates quickly, closes down space, and jumps on loose balls. In open play, he stays upright and tough, making it hard for defenders to knock him off.
He keeps himself fit, rarely missing time. That’s not something every forward can say.
Here’s a look at his 2025 MLS stats for D.C. United:
| Category | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 24 |
| Goals | 6 |
| Assists | 3 |
| Minutes Played | 1,650 |
Those numbers show a forward who helps out in a bunch of ways. Whether he’s finishing, pressing, or drawing fouls, Badji makes an impact with both skill and hustle.
If you’re after more stats, check out his Transfermarkt profile.
D.C. United Career
D.C. United wanted to boost their attack, so they brought in a forward with a solid resume and international chops. Since then, Badji’s presence has helped shape the offense and added depth to the squad.
Signing and Contract Details
D.C. United picked up Dominique Badji as a free agent after his run with Bandirmaspor in Turkey. They made the deal official in early July 2024, making it clear they wanted more experience up front.
Badji signed a two-year contract that goes through 2026, with an option for 2027 if things keep clicking. The club announced it on the Fourth of July, which felt like a fresh start for both sides.
You can get the full scoop on the deal from D.C. United.
Performance and Impact Since Joining
Since joining, Badji has brought speed, muscle, and a knack for finishing to the D.C. United attack. He jumped right into the starting rotation, filling the forward role when the team needed goals.
With plenty of MLS experience, he adapted quickly to the coach’s system. You can see his impact in the stats:
| Stat | Number |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 18 |
| Goals | 5 |
| Assists | 2 |
| Shots on Target | 17 |
| Minutes Played | 1,120 |
Badji stands out for his work rate, especially on the break and when pressing opponents. He’s given D.C. United more options, letting them tweak tactics in big games.
Notable Matches and Highlights
His debut at Audi Field? He impressed right away with his movement and link-up play. Against the Philadelphia Union, Badji scored a late header to save a crucial draw for United.
He also bagged a goal against Atlanta United, capitalizing on a loose ball in the box for an early lead. Those moments have fired up the home crowd and boosted locker room morale.
Badji’s performances in must-win games have given the club the leadership and spark you want from a veteran MLS forward. For more on his journey, check out his D.C. United profile.
MLS Experience and Career Journey
Dominique Badji’s MLS journey is a lesson in consistency and adaptability. He’s made an impression with every team, showing up as a reliable forward who delivers when it counts.
Colorado Rapids Years
Badji started his pro career with the Colorado Rapids. Drafted 67th overall in 2015, he quickly broke into the starting lineup.
He got noticed for his speed and ability to find space in the box. Over 90 matches, he knocked in 24 goals and became a regular threat up top.
His 2018 season stood out—7 goals and a reputation as a go-to guy when the Rapids needed a spark. Those early Colorado years really set the tone for his career.
FC Dallas Contributions
FC Dallas traded for Badji in July 2018, hoping to give both teams a boost. In Dallas, his athleticism fit right in with their quick attack.
He scored 8 goals in 38 matches, always finding ways to get into dangerous spots. His pressing and ability to stretch the field added a new wrinkle to Dallas’ game plan.
In playoff pushes, his energy up top made a difference. He wasn’t the top scorer, but coaches and fans appreciated his work rate and team-first mentality.
FC Dallas Stats for Dominique Badji
| Season | Games | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 12 | 2 | 1 |
| 2019 | 26 | 6 | 2 |
Nashville SC Season
Badji joined Nashville SC for their 2020 debut season, bringing MLS experience to a brand-new team. He quickly earned trust as the starting striker.
He helped Nashville make the playoffs in year one. His direct style and physical presence opened up space for others, even when goals were tough to come by.
He chipped in 1 goal from 17 appearances, but his impact went beyond the stat sheet.
FC Cincinnati Achievements
Badji signed with FC Cincinnati in December 2021, joining a club in the middle of a rebuild. His veteran touch paid off, whether starting or coming off the bench.
He scored several key goals over the 2022 and 2023 seasons, including a big one in one of Cincinnati’s highest-scoring wins. His movement off the ball and link-up play became valuable assets.
As Cincinnati fought for playoff spots, Badji’s leadership and adaptability stood out. He also became a steadying voice in the locker room, adding experience during a big transition.
You can see more about his moves and numbers at his MLS profile.
International and Collegiate Background
Dominique Badji’s path to MLS weaves through his early years in Senegal, a standout college run at Boston University, and a leap to the pros via the MLS SuperDraft.
His journey blends global and American soccer cultures, all driven by skill and a stubborn will to succeed.
Early Life in Senegal and Move to the U.S.
Badji grew up in Dakar, Senegal, where soccer’s everywhere and competition is fierce. He found his love for the game on local fields, learning from older players who pushed him to get better fast.
Those early games shaped his grit and attacking instincts. As a teenager, Badji and his family moved to the United States.
Adapting wasn’t easy—new language, new culture, new style of soccer. But he kept at it, sharpening his skills on club and high school teams.
His Senegalese roots still run deep, shaping how he plays and leads.
Boston University and College Accolades
At Boston University, Badji stood out as one of the Terriers’ top talents. Competing in NCAA Division I, he faced tough opponents every week.
In his first year, he won America East Rookie of the Year—not bad for a freshman. He kept getting better, earning First Team All-Conference honors more than once.
His senior year, he took home Patriot League Offensive Player of the Year, showing just how much he meant to the team.
His college career was all about speed, strength, and a nose for goal.
Boston University Accolades Table
| Year | Award | Conference |
|---|---|---|
| Freshman | America East Rookie of the Year | America East |
| Senior | Patriot League Offensive Player of the Year | Patriot League |
MLS SuperDraft and Entry to Professional Soccer
Let’s talk about how Dominique Badji jumped into the pro game. In 2015, he went into the MLS SuperDraft as a college goal scorer who turned heads. Teams liked his athleticism and that college resume—he was a prospect you just couldn’t ignore.
On draft day, the Colorado Rapids called his name. That moment? It kicked off his pro soccer journey, and you could feel the excitement.
The league showed real faith in what college players can do, and Badji got right to work. Adjusting to MLS wasn’t easy, but he leaned on that work ethic he built at Boston University. He found his spot up top, doing the gritty work at forward.
Now, you see his story connect Senegal’s fields, college soccer, and the big leagues with D.C. United.
Career Stats and Accolades
Dominique Badji’s run as a forward? It’s been steady. He’s shown up for clubs all across Major League Soccer, put in the work, and delivered when it counted.
He’s played for D.C. United and a handful of other MLS squads. You’ll see his stats reflect what he’s brought to the field—goals, assists, and a reputation for making an impact.
MLS Career Statistics
Badji’s logged over 200 matches in MLS and put away more than 35 goals. He’s had stints with Colorado Rapids, FC Dallas, Nashville SC, and, of course, D.C. United.
Coaches trust him for his consistency and that relentless work rate up front.
In 2025, Badji’s suited up 11 times for D.C. United. He’s put in the minutes, even if the goals haven’t come yet this season. He’s been out there for regular games, MLS Cup Playoffs, and the U.S. Open Cup.
| Season | Club | Matches | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | D.C. United | 11 | 0 | 0 |
| 2015-24 | Other MLS | 200+ | 35+ | 17+ |
You want the latest numbers? Check Badji’s player profile.
Key Goals and Assists
Badji plays a direct, hard-working style. He’s scored in some big games and knockout rounds over the years.
He’s delivered in playoff pushes—those clutch finishes that either keep a team alive or help them move on.
He’s not topping the scoring charts, but he’s got a knack for timely assists. Especially when the pressure’s on or a counterattack is on. Sometimes, he’ll change the game with a quick burst.
You’ve seen him do this for FC Dallas, Nashville SC, and lately for D.C. United in tight matches.
He’s stepped up in the MLS Cup Playoffs and the U.S. Open Cup. Badji’s the kind of player who’s always ready to pounce when a chance shows up.
Awards and Honors
Badji’s picked up some recognition along the way. Sure, he hasn’t lifted a major league trophy yet, but he’s landed on the MLS Team of the Week a few times.
Those honors usually come after he’s put in a big shift or delivered against tough teams.
Teams respect his versatility and how he carries himself. His value’s stayed steady—Transfermarkt keeps track, and you can see clubs still want what he brings.
He’s even played in tournaments like the Leagues Cup, adding more to that resume and getting a taste of different competition in North America.
Transfers and International Club Experience
Badji’s career has taken him across teams and even countries. Each move? It shows teams want his reliability and that he’s not afraid to try something new.
Transfer History
You can follow Badji’s club journey through American and European soccer. He started his Major League Soccer career in the U.S., then made stops at several teams.
He’s played for Colorado Rapids, FC Dallas, Nashville SC, and FC Cincinnati along the way.
His latest move brought him to D.C. United in July 2024. Before that, he spent some time in Turkey’s second division, suiting up for Bandirmaspor.
If you want every detail, Transfermarkt lays out his transfer history, the years he spent at each club, and his stats.
Summary of Key Transfers
| Year | Club | Country | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | Colorado Rapids | USA | MLS Debut |
| 2018 | FC Dallas | USA | Transferred within MLS |
| 2021 | Nashville SC | USA | Free transfer |
| 2022 | FC Cincinnati | USA | Signed as a veteran presence |
| 2024 | Bandirmaspor | Turkey | Move to TFF First League |
| 2024 | D.C. United | USA | Returned to MLS |
Bandirmaspor Tenure
Badji’s spell with Bandirmaspor in Turkey’s second division? Short, but it stands out.
The move overseas surprised some folks, but it showed he could adapt to a totally different soccer culture.
He faced new hurdles—different language, new playing style, and a league that’s no walk in the park.
He got into league matches and brought some veteran leadership to the locker room. Even with a limited run, he stayed professional.
After Turkey, he set his sights back on MLS. That drive led him to sign with D.C. United, and now he’s back doing what he does best on American soil.
Contract Details and Agent
D.C. United brought Dominique Badji on board as a free agent July 4, 2024. He’s inked a deal that keeps him with the club through the 2026 season, and there’s a club option for 2027 if things go well.
That’s a solid two-year commitment, showing the club really trusts his experience and what he brings every match. If you want to check out the finer details—like his market value and contract length—you can always head over to Transfermarkt.
Badji’s agency worked the phones and handled everything for his move from Turkey back to Major League Soccer. You can see his market value hasn’t really changed, which says a lot about how teams view him.
Both the club and Badji have put their cards on the table, aiming for a stable partnership with some big upside if all goes right.
