Julian Hall etched his name into MLS history on Saturday, becoming the youngest player ever to score a hat-trick in the league. The New York Red Bulls academy product netted three goals against Columbus Crew at just 18 years and 50 days old, surpassing Ricardo Pepi's previous record of 18 years and 196 days.
Hall's explosive performance showcased the attacking prowess that has transformed him into a cornerstone of New York's season. Under first-year manager Michael Bradley, the Red Bulls have revitalized their campaign, and Hall's emergence as a prolific finisher has been central to that turnaround. Before this campaign, the academy graduate had managed just three goals across 38 appearances spanning 2023 and 2025—meaning he has already tripled his career tally with nine goals and two assists this season.
Clinical Finishing in Crucial Victory
Hall opened the scoring early, capitalizing in the seventh minute to set an aggressive tone. He doubled his tally in the 40th minute with a close-range finish that restored New York's lead, then sealed the victory with a well-taken 78th-minute goal after pouncing on a loose ball following a corner kick. His positioning and instinctive finishing reflect the technical development of a player who has progressed rapidly through the Red Bulls' academy system.
The performance underscores Hall's potential as a generational talent for both club and country. With the international window approaching, the Red Bulls face a demanding fixture list: rivals New York City FC await on May 16, followed by a trip to Sporting Kansas City on May 23. Hall's hot streak will be crucial as New York pushes toward the end of the regular season with postseason aspirations firmly in view.
