Carlos Vela holds the record as the all-time leading scorer in MLS history with 85 career goals. The Mexican forward achieved this milestone during his time with Los Angeles FC (LAFC) from 2018 to 2023, where he became one of the most prolific goalscorers in league history.
Vela broke the previous record held by Landon Donovan, who scored 57 goals during his MLS career. Vela's record-setting 2019 season, where he scored 34 goals in the regular season, helped establish him as one of the greatest players in MLS history. His combination of technical skill, finishing ability, and consistency made him a dominant force in Major League Soccer.
Other notable all-time MLS leading scorers include Chris Wondolowski with 171 goals, Landon Donovan with 145 goals, and Kei Kamara with 138 goals. These players have left lasting legacies in MLS through their prolific goalscoring careers spanning multiple seasons and teams.