Soccer’s speed is one of the most fascinating aspects of the game. The thrill of hearing about the best is inspiring, regardless of whether it’s finding the fastest player, fastest moving team or the fastest shots.
It is amazing how fast shots can travel at the highest level. Amazing things can happen when a player has full control over the ball and has enough time to apply some power. Here are some of the fastest soccer shots ever recorded. Here’s a list of some of the most explosive shots.
1. Ronny Heberson – 131 MPH
Although it is difficult for most people to visualize a shot moving at this speed, there is video that shows the defender striking and placing the ball in the net.
The ball appears to be blurred at speeds of 131 mph. It can be stopped almost immediately if it is placed in the correct position. Defensive players could stop it moving in this case by either being in its path, hopefully, or not lining things up correctly. Unfortunately, neither one of these happened.
2. Arjen Robben – 118 MPH
Robben was, in his prime, regarded by many as one of the most powerful and strongest players in the game. Robben was feared by many, regardless of whether he was playing for the Netherlands or one of the best clubs in the world.
Robben was able to reach 180 mph while using a kick in a 2009 match. He also scored for Real Madrid. Robben’s power and speed surprised many of the people present.
3. Steven Reid – 117.4 MPH
Although Reid is best known for his coaching, many were shocked at how much power he had behind this goal for Blackburn. It was one the most remarkable goals of the year. And it’s been nearly impossible for anyone else to get close.
Although Reid did have some powerful kicks throughout his career, none of them could match Reid’s speed at the moment. It was certainly an impressive feat by a player who accomplished quite a lot.
4. Ronald Koeman – 116.8 MPH
Many believed that Koeman was the greatest player in the world, even when he was playing for Ajax. He was a skilled runner and he was able to kick the ball accurately and hard. For someone who was most of his life a defender, he scored more than 200 goals during his professional career.
Koeman’s shot traveled 116.8 miles back in 1992. Considering the time that it happened, it was one of the most impressive shots in the sport’s history. It was still as fast as any real-time shot.
5. David Hirst – 114 MPH
David Hirst couldn’t make it to the back of net for most of the shots that made this list. The good news is that his shot only hit the crossbar. This kind of speed was rare in the 1990s. While he was playing for Sheffield, there were only a handful of shots that he could connect on, but none as impressive as this one.
He would have a solid career, both at club level and international. Although it’s a little disappointing that it didn’t go in, it is worth keeping in mind.
6. David Beckham – 97.9 MPH
Many people have forgotten how great David Beckham was as a player during his prime. While he was a skilled player, his leg strength allowed him to make some quick shots. Particularly on dead balls, he was the most dangerous.
His most difficult kick came in 1997 when Manchester United was playing against Chelsea. This spectacular shot was his best, proving how dominant he was in his prime. He probably would have made it faster if he didn’t put so much ball on it.
7. David Trezeguet – 96 MPH
Whether he was starting for Juventus or France, David Trezeguet is considered one of the hardest shot takers in both squads’ history. While he was younger, Trezeguet connected with lots of shots in the 90-mph range. However, his accuracy has decreased as he gets older.
He was playing for AS Monaco and was able hit a shot at 96 mph. A shot that is so hard and plays so well can do nothing for defense.
8. Richie Humphreys – 95.9 mph
Richie Humphreys, who played for Sheffield in 1996 showed how strong his leg is. His unique ability to finish gave him much recognition throughout his career.
In 1996, he faced Aston Villa and made sure that he would be remembered, even though he did not have the same career.
9. Tony Yeboah – 95.7 mph
Even though he only spent two years at Leeds United, Tony Yeboah made a lasting impression. He helped them reach new heights and showed that he is one the greatest kickers in history. In 1995, he hit 95.7 mph. This was a testament to his skill as a shotmaker.
10. Zlatan Ibrahimovic – 93.3 mph
Zlatan Ibrahimovic is a must-have for any list of fastest soccer shots. He is a huge and powerful player who can stop some of the most difficult balls in soccer today. Even though he has reached middle age, he still strikes the ball with great skill.
Ibrahimovic has been a player for several clubs over his career. However, during a stop at Paris Saint-Germain, he scored a goal travelling more than 93 mph. Ibrahimovic is showing that he can hit almost anywhere and that he has a knack for striking fear into the hearts of his opponents.
11. Adriano – 89.5 mph
Many feel that Adriano is not living up to his potential, despite having so much talent. Adriano has demonstrated some of his abilities by scoring some the most difficult goals ever for Inter Milan or Brazil.
His hardest shot was 89.5 mph. This is a very difficult shot to take from a left foot. He can cause a lot trouble for goalies when he’s on, but sometimes it gets in the way.
12. Alan Shearer – 85.8 mph
It is quite remarkable that Alan Shearer, who has scored 260 Premier League goals in his career, is still considered a little underrated. Maybe people did not think that he was good enough to compete in today’s Premier League with some of the top talent, but his numbers would show otherwise.
His ability to crack the ball hard for shots would certainly translate well to today’s game just fine. His fastest shot, at 85.8 miles per hour, is still the fastest in English football.
13. Roberto Carlos – 85.7 mph
Roberto Carlos is one of many great Brazilian players. His 1997 performance for his country saw him kick one of the toughest balls the team had ever seen. His ability to use power in the right way balanced out his game perfectly.
Many believe that Carlos is the most versatile power player in the game. He would be the first to receive an award for fastest consistency.
14. Tugay – 84.2 mph
Tugay may not have the same reputation, but he was able show how strong the leg he had in 2005 for Blackburn Rovers. He reached 84.2 mph with a free kick, which was impossible to stop for the defense.
Although his shot was occasionally erratic, it was one of the hardest balls to stop when it was on target.
15. Obafemi Martins – 84 mph
Former Newcastle United star Obafemi Martins is the last goal on this list. He had an outstanding shot at White Hart Lane that captured so many fans’ attention at the start of the social media era. He would get even more recognition if he did it today. However, many people still remember his shot every year because it is so memorable.