Lexi Watts Explained: How Old the Kansas Soccer Star Really Is

Lexi Watts Explained: How Old the Kansas Soccer Star Really Is

If you’ve been following the Kansas Jayhawks lately, you know the name Lexi Watts. She’s the one usually blurring past defenders or finding the back of the net when the game is on the line. But for all her highlight reels, there is one question that pops up in every search bar: how old is Lexi Watts?

It’s a fair question. She plays with the composure of a ten-year veteran, yet she has that raw, explosive energy you only see in college standouts.

The Current Age of Lexi Watts

As of early 2026, Lexi Watts is 21 years old.

She’s currently a senior at the University of Kansas, wrapping up a collegiate career that has been nothing short of legendary in Lawrence. Most people assume she’s older because her name has been a staple of the Big 12 conversation since 2022. It feels like she’s been around forever, but that’s just because she broke onto the scene so early.

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Born and raised with soccer in her blood, Lexi’s timeline is actually pretty straightforward once you look at the stats.

A Quick Breakdown of the Years

  • Birthplace: Clovis, California (named after Lexington Avenue there, which is a cool bit of trivia).
  • Relocated: Moved to Lenexa, Kansas, at age five.
  • Current Status: 21-year-old senior forward for the Jayhawks.
  • Major: Business Marketing.

Honestly, it’s wild to think she’s only 21 when you look at her trophy case. We're talking about a Fourth-team All-American who has been terrorizing goalkeepers since she was a teenager.

Why Everyone is Searching for Her Age

The spike in interest regarding how old is Lexi Watts usually comes down to her "senior" status. In the world of college sports, especially post-pandemic, "senior" can mean a lot of things. Thanks to redshirts and extra years of eligibility, some "seniors" are 23 or 24.

Lexi isn't one of those.

She’s a true senior. She came in as a freshman in 2022 and has played four straight seasons of high-impact soccer. When you see her listed as a senior in 2025-2026, she is exactly where she’s supposed to be chronologically.

The 2025 Breakout and Beyond

Last season was the one that really put her on the national map. While people were busy asking about her age, Lexi was busy putting up a career-high 11 goals in 24 games. She didn’t just play; she dominated.

She led the Jayhawks to the NCAA Tournament Round of 16 and picked up another First-team All-Big 12 nod. It’s that kind of production that makes pro scouts drool. At 21, she’s entering her physical prime.

The Family Connection

Soccer is basically the family business for the Watts crew.

  1. Her mom, Wendy, played at Baker University.
  2. Her dad, Rian, also played at Baker and even coached Lexi when she was a toddler.
  3. Her sister, Sydney Watts, is currently a standout at Vanderbilt.

There was actually a pretty famous matchup where the two sisters faced off—Lexi at KU and Sydney at Vanderbilt. Imagine being the parents in the stands for that one. Talk about a house divided.

What’s Next for Lexi?

Now that the "how old is Lexi Watts" mystery is solved, the real question is where she goes from here. Since she is finishing her senior year at 21, she is perfectly positioned for the next level. Whether that’s the NWSL draft or a move abroad, her age is a huge asset. She has four years of top-tier Division I experience, but she hasn't even hit 22 yet.

She’s also been heavy into the NIL game, working with brands like Charlie Hustle and maintaining a solid presence on social media. She isn't just a soccer player; she's a marketing major who clearly understands how to build a brand.

Key Takeaways for Fans

If you're trying to keep up with Lexi's trajectory, keep these points in mind:

  • Check the Roster: While she is a senior now, her eligibility for "COVID years" is different than older players, so don't expect her to linger in college forever.
  • Watch the Draft: Given her All-American status at 21, she is a prime candidate for professional transition.
  • Follow the Stats: Her shooting percentage and "shots on goal" metrics have improved every single year she's been at Kansas.

Stop worrying about the number on her birth certificate and start watching the number on her jersey. Lexi Watts is a generational talent for the Jayhawks, and at 21, she’s just getting started.

Actionable Next Steps:
To stay updated on Lexi's professional transition, keep a close eye on the NWSL Draft eligibility lists and the Kansas Athletics official transition announcements. If you are following her for NIL or marketing insights, her Opendorse profile remains the best spot to see her current brand value and active partnerships.