Craig Gordon is one of Scotland’s most enduring football figures, a goalkeeper whose career has spanned more than two decades. Born on 31 December 1982 in Edinburgh, Gordon is synonymous with Heart of Midlothian, the club where he began his journey and later returned. His career also includes stints at Sunderland and Celtic, and he has earned over 70 caps for Scotland, a testament to his consistency and skill even as he approaches his mid-40s. Beyond his saves and trophies, Gordon is celebrated for his resilience, bouncing back from severe injuries that might have ended lesser careers.
Quick Facts of Craig Gordon
| Full Name | Craig Sinclair Gordon |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | 31 December 1982 |
| Age | 42 (as of 2025) |
| Place of Birth | Edinburgh, Scotland |
| Nationality | Scottish |
| Height | 6 ft 2 in (188 cm) |
| Position | Goalkeeper |
| Clubs | Heart of Midlothian, Sunderland, Celtic |
| Scotland Caps | 70+ |
| Marital Status | Married to Summer Harl (since 17 July 2025) |
| Children | Four (Ace, Axel, Freya, Emma) |
| Net Worth | £5–10 million |
| Major Achievements | 3× SFWA Footballer of the Year, multiple Scottish Cup & Premiership titles |
Early Life and Background
Gordon grew up in Edinburgh’s Balerno area in a football-oriented family. His father, David Gordon, played as a goalkeeper in the East of Scotland League, exposing Craig to the position’s demands from an early age. He practiced regularly in local parks, refining the reflexes and composure that would later define his style.
Gordon attended Balerno Community High School from 1994 to 1999, balancing academics with youth training. The challenges of adolescence, combined with competitive local football, instilled discipline and resilience. The intense atmosphere of Edinburgh derbies further nurtured his loyalty to Hearts, a club that would anchor his career.
Professional Career
Breaking Through at Hearts
Gordon joined Heart of Midlothian’s youth academy and debuted for the senior team in 2000 at age 17. A loan to Cowdenbeath in 2001 gave him valuable match experience, but he soon became Hearts’ first-choice goalkeeper. In 2006, he played a pivotal role in Hearts’ Scottish Cup victory, marking his arrival on the national stage.
Sunderland and Challenges in England
In 2007, Gordon transferred to Sunderland for £9 million, a British record for a goalkeeper at the time. While injuries limited his impact, playing in the Premier League exposed him to higher levels of competition, sharpening his skills and tactical understanding.
Celtic and Career Revival
After a two-year injury hiatus, Gordon joined Celtic in 2014, reigniting his career. He contributed to multiple Scottish Premiership titles and Scottish Cups, including treble-winning seasons from 2016 to 2020. Notable performances, such as his Europa League save against Salzburg in 2018, reminded European fans of his talent.
He returned to Hearts in 2020, captaining the team to European qualification and earning legendary status with over 330 appearances.
International Career
Gordon has represented Scotland more than 70 times. He played key roles in Euro 2020 qualification playoffs, making crucial penalty saves that secured advancement. Even at 42, he received a surprise recall to the national squad in 2025 for World Cup qualifiers, reflecting coach Steve Clarke’s trust in his experience and leadership.
Personal Life
Gordon’s personal life blends family and football. He was married to Jennifer, with whom he has two daughters, Freya and Emma. After their divorce in 2018, he began a relationship with Summer Harl, a former Celtic TV host. The couple married on 17 July 2025 and have two sons, Ace (2021) and Axel (2022). Gordon often credits his family for supporting him during injury recoveries and career challenges.
Outside football, Gordon enjoys playing guitar and studying Scottish football history. He briefly coached youth goalkeepers during injury breaks and maintains a thoughtful, low-profile public presence.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
Craig Gordon’s net worth is estimated at £5–10 million, derived from club salaries, endorsements, and property investments in Edinburgh. His weekly wages at Hearts are around £4,500, supplemented by bonuses for club and international appearances. Despite financial success, Gordon leads a grounded lifestyle, supporting local causes and prioritizing family over luxury.
Legacy and Influence
Gordon has inspired young goalkeepers across Scotland, influencing training methods and national team stability. His resilience through injuries and longevity in professional football reflect a career built on perseverance, leadership, and consistent performance. His testimonial match against Sunderland in 2025 celebrated his legacy, honoring a player who represents the grit and determination of Scottish football.
