2002 MLS Season
LA Galaxy repeated as MLS Cup champions behind Carlos Ruiz, who swept the MVP, Golden Boot, and Newcomer of the Year awards. The league contracted from 12 to 10 teams as Miami Fusion and Tampa Bay Mutiny ceased operations.
MLS Cup Final
- Champion
- LA Galaxy
- Runner-Up
- New England Revolution
- Score
- 1-0 (OT)
- Supporters' Shield
- LA Galaxy
Individual Awards
- MVP
- Carlos Ruiz
- Golden Boot
- Carlos Ruiz (24 goals)
- Goalkeeper of the Year
- Joe Cannon
- Coach of the Year
- Steve Nicol
- Newcomer of the Year
- Carlos Ruiz
Major Stories
- •LA Galaxy repeat as MLS Cup champions
- •Carlos Ruiz wins MVP, Golden Boot, and Newcomer of the Year
- •MLS contraction sees Miami Fusion and Tampa Bay Mutiny fold
Major Signings
- Carlos Ruiz to LA Galaxy
Standings (Top 10)
| # | Team | Record | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  FC Dallas | 20-11-1 | 61 |
| 2 |  D.C. United | 16-7-9 | 57 |
| 3 |  LA Galaxy | 15-8-9 | 54 |
| 4 |  New England Revolution | 12-10-10 | 46 |
| 5 |  New York Red Bulls | 12-10-10 | 46 |
| 6 |  San Jose Earthquakes | 12-10-10 | 46 |
| 7 |  Sporting Kansas City | 12-10-10 | 46 |
| 8 |  Chicago Fire FC | 8-18-6 | 30 |
| 9 |  Columbus Crew | 8-18-6 | 30 |
| 10 |  Colorado Rapids | 8-18-6 | 30 |
Best XI
- Joe Cannon
- Carlos Bocanegra
- Carlos Ruiz
- Landon Donovan
- Taylor Twellman