The 2011 MLS season was a landmark year that saw the LA Galaxy capture their third MLS Cup title, defeating the Houston Dynamo 1-0 in the championship match at The Home Depot Center (now Dignity Health Sports Park) in Carson, California. The season was highlighted by the arrival of several high-profile Designated Players, including Thierry Henry at the New York Red Bulls and Rafa Marquez at the New York Red Bulls, continuing MLS's strategy of attracting global soccer stars.
The regular season featured 34 matches per team across 18 clubs, with the LA Galaxy finishing as Supporters' Shield winners with 67 points. Dwayne De Rosario won the MLS MVP award while playing for DC United and later the New York Red Bulls, becoming the first player to win the award while playing for two different teams in the same season. Chris Wondolowski had a breakout year with the San Jose Earthquakes, scoring 16 goals and establishing himself as one of MLS's premier strikers.
The 2011 season also marked significant infrastructure developments, with several teams moving to new soccer-specific stadiums and MLS continuing its expansion discussions. The playoff format featured 10 teams, and the Galaxy's championship run was anchored by strong performances from Landon Donovan, David Beckham, and goalkeeper Josh Saunders, cementing their status as one of the most successful franchises in MLS history.