Ted Ku-DiPietro Colorado Rapids #21 Midfielder: Key Player Profile and Season Impact
Ted Ku-DiPietro is turning heads as the newest face in the Colorado Rapids midfield. He traded in his D.C. United kit for the mountain air of Commerce City, and now he’s rocking number 21 as he jumps into Major League Soccer’s most intense moments.
If you want a player with youthful energy, technical quality, and that drive to change a game, Ku-DiPietro is your guy this season.
The Rapids dropped over a million bucks to bring him in, which shows real confidence in his upside and potential. At just 23, he’s stepping into a big role—his vision, speed, and creativity could really help shape Colorado’s attack.
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We’re about to see what happens when a young midfielder gets the keys to a bigger stage. Will he run with it? I think so.
If you haven’t caught much of Ku-DiPietro yet, let’s break down his background, what he brings to the Rapids, and why the move has people talking across MLS.
Contents
Ted Ku-DiPietro’s Career With Colorado Rapids
Ted Ku-DiPietro made a big leap in his career when he joined the Colorado Rapids. Both he and the club saw this move as a chance to take on new challenges and push for more in Major League Soccer.
Background and Signing
He joined the Rapids from D.C. United in a transfer that cost $1.125 million in allocation money, plus some potential bonuses. This move happened right before the 2025 MLS season, and expectations shot up for Ku-DiPietro’s impact as a creative midfielder.
Before all that, Ku-DiPietro came up through the D.C. United academy as a homegrown player. He made his mark early, getting regular first-team minutes in his early 20s.
Colorado didn’t just look at stats. The Rapids saw his technical skills, vision, and pure work rate as the right fit for their style. They wanted a midfielder who could do more than just keep the ball moving.
Notable Appearances and Performances
Since arriving in Denver, Ku-DiPietro has played in some big matches. You probably remember his club debut in early 2025—he came off offseason shoulder surgery but still flashed his potential in midfield.
He’s shown quick turns, sharp passing, and a knack for finding space in traffic. In the 2025 season, he set up goals, hustled defensively, and drew fouls that gave the Rapids set piece chances.
These performances earned him regular starts and a bigger spotlight from fans and coaches.
Here’s how his early numbers look with the Rapids:
| Season | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Minutes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 10 | 2 | 3 | 750 |
His stats don’t tell the whole story, but you can see his influence goes beyond just goals and assists.
Role as a Midfielder
Ted Ku-DiPietro lines up mainly as an attacking midfielder, but you’ll spot him out wide or deeper at times. The Rapids have used him in different setups—sometimes in a midfield three, sometimes tucked in for width.
He connects passes, presses opponents, and sparks creativity in the final third. Ku-DiPietro’s instincts and soccer IQ make him a real asset, whether he’s on the ball or moving off it.
You see it in his movement and feel for the game. Whether he’s under pressure or setting up a chance, he gives the Rapids something extra going forward.
Player Profile and Playing Style
Ku-DiPietro wears number 21 for Colorado, filling a key spot as an attacking midfielder. He’s built his rep on playmaking, quick bursts, and the knack for changing a game from central areas.
Attacking Threat and Creativity
You notice right away how Ku-DiPietro puts pressure on defenses with his instincts near goal. He’s comfortable getting the ball under pressure, and he can flip the field fast.
His vision lets him spot runners making smart moves off the ball. He loves threading creative passes through tight windows, keeping defenders honest.
Near the box, he’ll link up with forwards or have a go himself if the chance is there. Honestly, he’s not shy about taking risks to set up scoring chances.
Speed and Agility
Ku-DiPietro doesn’t win every sprint, but his quickness and agility stand out. He’s got that ability to slip between defenders, using fast footwork to keep attacks alive.
His movement off the ball opens up space in midfield. Defenders have trouble tracking his sharp runs, which gives his teammates more chances.
He’s also got a real willingness to press and win the ball back upfield. That unpredictability makes him tough to defend and adds to his creative spark.
Career Performance Metrics
Ku-DiPietro joined Colorado in February 2025, bringing MLS experience from D.C. United. At 23, he stands 5’9″ and weighs in at 161 lbs—right in line with the league’s demands.
Here’s a quick look at his recent numbers:
| Season | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 (DC United) | 32 | 4 | 7 | 2,300 |
| 2025 (Rapids) | 15 | 2 | 3 | 1,120 |
As an attacking midfielder, he gets plenty of touches in the attacking third and chips in with both goals and assists. He’s got a high work rate and shows up consistently at the MLS level.
You can check out more on the official Rapids site and Transfermarkt.
Professional Journey Prior to Colorado Rapids
Ted Ku-DiPietro built his game step by step—first in the USL Championship, then in Major League Soccer. His path took him from standout performances in the second division to real minutes and a reputation in MLS.
D.C. United Tenure
Looking back at his D.C. United days, you see a player who made the most of every opportunity. He started as a homegrown signing and quickly became a regular on the field.
Over several seasons, he went from promising reserve to important contributor for the first team. D.C. United valued his soccer IQ, athleticism, and drive.
His work rate fit perfectly in the midfield, and he impressed with smart passes and supportive runs. He played over 40 MLS games and picked up real experience in high-pressure moments.
The move to the Colorado Rapids via a cash-for-player trade showed how much teams valued him. That deal, which included more than $1 million in allocation money and future bonuses, highlighted Colorado’s belief in his long-term potential.
D.C. United Key Stats:
| Season | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 – 2024 | 43 | 5 | 6 |
Loudoun United Experience
Ku-DiPietro’s early professional days took shape at Loudoun United, D.C. United’s USL Championship affiliate. He started there, becoming a regular starter even as a teenager.
His time with Loudoun gave him a chance to show his technical skills and toughness in midfield. He played over 60 matches, got valuable minutes, and learned decision-making against experienced pros.
Coaches trusted him with all sorts of midfield roles, from box-to-box to attacking. He gained a reputation for reliability and making the team better.
Some of those seasons included standout games, with goals and assists when the team needed them most. That foundation helped him step up to MLS and eventually make his mark in Colorado.
Loudoun United Key Stats:
| Season | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 – 2022 | 64 | 9 | 7 |
Personal Background and Early Life
Ted Ku-DiPietro’s story starts with family, heritage, and a tight-knit soccer community. His roots run deep, and those early experiences shaped his path to the pro game.
Place of Birth and Hometown
Ted’s journey began in Oakton, Virginia, where local fields gave him his first taste of the game. Born on January 28, 2002, he grew up in an area known for strong youth sports.
Oakton sits near Washington, D.C., making it easy to find competition and opportunity. He attended Oakton High School in Vienna, right next door to his hometown.
The school has a solid athletics program, giving student-athletes like Ted a real platform. He built a reputation as a standout early on, setting the stage for his next steps.
Key Facts Table
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Place of Birth | Oakton, Virginia |
| High School | Oakton High School |
| Date of Birth | Jan 28, 2002 |
Heritage and Descent
You can’t really tell Ted Ku-DiPietro’s story without mentioning his multicultural roots. Ted’s mom is of Chinese descent, adding a layer of cultural depth to his upbringing.
His dad brings Polish and German ancestry to the mix. The last name ‘DiPietro’ actually comes from his adoptive Italian grandfather—not by blood, but by family connection.
All these backgrounds blend together, giving Ted a unique perspective and helping him relate to teammates from all walks of life. That mix of influences is a big part of what makes his story stand out.
Youth Clubs and Development
Let’s talk about Ted Ku-DiPietro’s roots. The Arlington Soccer Association shaped him, no doubt about it. Growing up in Northern Virginia, Ted joined teams with a serious track record for producing college and pro talent.
Through Arlington, Ted got top-notch coaching and played in tough matches week in and week out. He didn’t just stick to local leagues—tournaments and scouting events gave him a bigger stage.
By his sophomore year of high school, Ted started picking up statewide honors. He made first-team all-state, which is no small feat. Those early accolades put him on college scouts’ radar and nudged him down the path to the pros.
The connections he made back then? They still matter today, both for his own career and for the whole youth soccer scene. If you want to dive deeper, check out the ongoing college sports drama.
Achievements and Accolades
Ted Ku-DiPietro doesn’t just show up—he makes an impact. His technical skill and steady play have drawn plenty of attention.
He’s turned heads in league play and has even represented the U.S. on the international stage.
MLS U-22 Initiative and Under-22 Accolades
You’ll see Ted’s name pop up with Major League Soccer’s U-22 Initiative. This program lets clubs sign and nurture young talent under 22, and Ted’s really flourished under that setup.
Coaches and league insiders noticed how often he got on the field and how hard he pushed to improve. He’s played alongside some of the league’s best young stars and earned a shot at the “22 Under 22” lists.
Let’s check out some of his U-22 numbers:
| Season | Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | D.C. United | 25 | 4 | 3 |
| 2024 | Colorado Rapids | 28 | 5 | 4 |
Those stats? They show Ted’s not just scoring—he’s setting up his teammates too. The U-22 Initiative has really helped him grow, and clubs like the Colorado Rapids have taken notice.
International Experience
Ted’s international resume gives you another reason to pay attention. He’s worn the U.S. shirt at youth levels, including the Pan American Games and several national camps.
He hasn’t bagged a senior international goal yet, but his work in these tournaments has sharpened his game. Facing international opponents pushes you in ways domestic leagues just can’t.
These youth competitions matter—a lot. They’re where ambitious American players prove themselves. Ted’s performances at events like the Pan Am Games show he’s all in for his country and hungry to keep developing.
As his club career keeps rolling, you can bet there’ll be more international chances coming his way.
Biographical Information
Ted Ku-DiPietro isn’t just a name on a roster. You get a real sense of the guy by looking at his background, age, and what he brings physically to the Colorado Rapids midfield.
Full Name and Identity
He goes by Ted Ku-DiPietro—full name’s Theodore Ku-DiPietro. You’ll see him listed as a midfielder wearing the number 21 for Colorado.
Born in Oakton, Virginia, Ted stands out as one of the next wave of American soccer players. His path through the U.S. youth system links him to a growing group of young pros making noise in MLS.
On match sheets, you’ll usually see “Ted Ku-DiPietro,” but official docs stick with “Theodore.” What sets him apart? His composure and skill when the game’s on the line.
Date of Birth and Age
Ted was born January 28, 2002. So he’ll be 23 by June 2025.
That early start gave him a chance to rack up experience while he was still pretty young. He’s now in that sweet spot where youth and experience start to blend.
He jumped into MLS games in his early 20s and adapted fast. The league’s pace and tactics can be brutal, but Ted’s handled it.
Basic Information Table:
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Theodore Ku-DiPietro |
| Date of Birth | January 28, 2002 |
| Age (June 2025) | 23 |
| Nationality | United States |
| Position | Midfielder |
| Club | Colorado Rapids |
Physical Attributes
Ted’s not just a technical guy—he’s got the physical tools too. He stands about 5’11”, which gives him the size to battle in midfield.
His build lets him hold his own in challenges and cover ground. You’ll notice how he uses his reach to break up plays and launch attacks.
He’s quick and strong, even if he’s not the tallest. That blend helps him match up with just about anyone in the league.
As the MLS season grinds on, those traits really matter. For more detail, check out his Colorado Rapids player page.
Notable Teammates and Comparisons
Ted Ku-DiPietro shares the field with some big names in MLS. Let’s break down who he plays with and how he stacks up.
Djordje Mihailovic
Djordje Mihailovic joined the Rapids after making a name for himself as a creative midfielder in Montreal and Europe.
If you watch him, you’ll see how he controls the tempo and finds teammates in tight spots. Mihailovic’s European experience shows, especially in pressure moments.
He usually sits a bit deeper, linking play, while Ted pushes forward more often.
Key Stats Table: 2024 Season (as of June)
| Player | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Key Passes/Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ted Ku-DiPietro | 17 | 3 | 4 | 1.2 |
| Djordje Mihailovic | 19 | 2 | 6 | 2.0 |
Together, they give the Rapids both stability and a creative spark in tough matches.
Cole Bassett
Cole Bassett is Colorado’s homegrown heart. He times his runs into the box, works like crazy, and loves to press high.
When Bassett and Ku-DiPietro play together, you feel the energy. Bassett’s the box-to-box engine, while Ted brings the creativity.
They often swap roles depending on what the game needs. If the Rapids are chasing a goal late, Bassett’s stamina and knack for getting into dangerous spots really shine.
Bassett Quick Facts:
- Rapids debut: 2018
- Best season: 2021 (5 goals, 3 assists)
- Youth US international
Watching those two in the middle tells you a lot about how Colorado likes to attack.
Christian Benteke
Christian Benteke isn’t a Rapids guy, but Rapids fans know him well from his time with D.C. United. He’s a force up top—big, strong, and wins just about everything in the air.
Ted played with Benteke at D.C. United before moving to Colorado. Benteke’s the target man, demanding service, while Ted was the guy pulling the strings behind him.
2024 Head-to-Head (Rapids vs D.C. United) Snapshot:
| Player | Goals vs Rapids | Headers Won | Fouls Drawn |
|---|---|---|---|
| Christian Benteke | 2 | 5 | 4 |
Going up against guys like Benteke brings out the best in midfielders like Ted. They’ve got to create and defend, all in the same match.
Multimedia and Online Presence
Ted Ku-DiPietro’s profile has been rising lately. Videos and interviews online let you see what he’s like both on and off the field.
Videos and Highlights
You can check out Ku-DiPietro’s postgame remarks after the Colorado Rapids took down LA Galaxy 2-0. He talks through key moments and, honestly, gives a pretty candid look at his mindset during the match.
These clips let you see how he chats with teammates and deals with pressure—something fans always want to know. Before big games, he’ll even break down his strategy, like before the showdown with the New England Revolution. That kind of insight? You don’t get it just anywhere.
You’ll find official match footage and interviews over at the Colorado Rapids website and on YouTube. These spots let you follow his journey as a midfielder in real time.
They keep the updates coming, so you can really watch his playmaking and personality develop, both on the field and off.
