Ates Diouf joined Lexington from USL Championship side San Antonio FC, starting five matches and appearing in 11 total as the team won the league title for the first time in club history in 2022.
Donning his new colors, Diouf excelled, becoming the club’s leading goal scorer with 15 goals. He was also the first player to ever record a hat trick and brace for the club, with his hat trick giving the club its first ever road win.
For his efforts Diouf was named to the USL League One All-League Team for 2023.
Originally from Rufisque, Senegal, Diouf made his way to the States after being recruited to play for SIMA Águilas, then of USL League Two. In 2019, he was signed to Orlando City B as the club entered USL League One, playing in 17 matches while scoring his first professional goal against South Georgia Tormenta.
During the 2020-21 seasons, Diouf was a member of USL Championship’s Austin Bold, scoring five times in 38 total appearances ahead of his move to San Antonio.
“I’m very honored and grateful to be among the first signings of this great club,” Diouf said ahead of the 2023 season. “I can’t wait to get started by setting the standards and bringing my years of professional experience to help the club reach new highs.”
Sporting Director Sam Stockley
“Ates has fantastic pace and is flexible within multiple positions. He was part of the San Antonio squad that is coming off a championship, so he was in an excellent environment. Ates is a high character person and a player we believe we can develop and progress.”
