Who is Chris Wood?
Chris Wood, born on December 7, 1991, in Auckland, New Zealand, is a professional footballer known for his career as a forward. He currently plays for Nottingham Forest in the English Premier League. Wood’s journey to professional football began in his early years, progressing through the ranks of New Zealand’s youth teams before establishing himself as a prominent figure in international and club football. Over the years, he has played for several top clubs including Burnley and Leeds United, while representing New Zealand internationally.
Early Life and Education
Chris Wood was born on December 7, 1991, in Auckland, New Zealand. Growing up in a football-loving family, his early exposure to the sport would set the stage for his future career. Wood’s father, who was also involved in sports, provided the initial encouragement that led Chris to pursue football at a young age. From an early age, he was involved in various sports, but football caught his attention and he began playing the game seriously during his school years.
Wood’s passion for football was apparent from his youth, and he quickly joined local youth teams, showing an exceptional ability for his age. His commitment to football intensified throughout his teenage years, with Wood balancing school and football training. Although his formal education was important, it became clear that his future lay in professional football. Wood attended various local schools, but his footballing education soon took priority over his academic pursuits. Despite this, he continued to remain grounded, with his parents ensuring he developed a well-rounded character alongside his sporting abilities.
By his teenage years, Wood was already recognized for his talent and potential. He began playing for the Wellington Phoenix youth team, one of New Zealand’s premier clubs, where he started to gain attention as a player to watch in the future. His early exposure to high-level coaching and competitive football in New Zealand played a crucial role in shaping his understanding of the game, making him a promising prospect in the eyes of scouts and coaches.
Personal Life
Chris Wood is known for being relatively private about his personal life, preferring to keep his off-field activities out of the public eye. While he is recognized as a committed and passionate professional on the pitch, he tends to keep his life outside of football fairly low-key. Wood enjoys a quiet life, away from the media spotlight that often accompanies top-level footballers.
He is married to his long-time partner, and the couple shares a strong bond. Wood has occasionally shared glimpses of his personal life on social media, often posting about family and lifestyle moments. The couple’s life away from football is centered around family values, and Wood is known to prioritize spending quality time with loved ones.
Wood is also known to be involved in charitable causes and has shown interest in supporting local communities and organizations. Although his public appearances are often limited, Wood’s commitment to his local New Zealand community is something that resonates deeply with his fans and followers. He is frequently seen supporting initiatives that encourage youth participation in sport, especially football, and has been involved in promoting sportsmanship and leadership in the next generation.
Family
Chris Wood comes from a close-knit family, and it is clear that his upbringing played a significant role in shaping his personality both on and off the field. His parents, although not directly involved in professional football, have always been supportive of his career, encouraging him to pursue his dreams from an early age. While much about his family remains private, it is clear that Wood values the strong bond he shares with his parents and siblings.
Wood’s family has always remained an integral part of his life, with many of his achievements being celebrated together. His father, who has been a constant figure in his life, instilled the discipline and determination required to succeed in professional football. Wood’s mother has also been a strong influence in his personal life, offering him guidance and support as he navigated his career in the competitive world of football.
Beyond his immediate family, Chris has often spoken about the impact of his extended family, who have been there through his footballing journey, from his humble beginnings to his rise as a professional player. His family’s unwavering support has been a constant source of motivation throughout his career, helping him to remain grounded despite the pressures and challenges that come with professional football.
Detailed Bio Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Christopher Grant Wood |
| Date of Birth | December 7, 1991 |
| Place of Birth | Auckland, New Zealand |
| Height | 1.91 meters (6 ft 3 in) |
| Position | Forward |
| Current Team | Nottingham Forest |
| National Team | New Zealand |
| Parents | Not publicly disclosed |
| Net Worth (2025) | Estimated at $15 million |
Career
Chris Wood’s professional football career began at a young age, and his journey to becoming one of New Zealand’s most renowned footballers is a testament to his dedication and hard work. His breakthrough came when he signed with the Wellington Phoenix senior team at just 16 years old. His early years at the club were critical in his development as a player, providing him with the foundation he needed to launch his career onto the international stage.
Wood’s impressive performances for Wellington Phoenix earned him a move to the English Premier League, where he joined West Bromwich Albion in 2009. However, it was not an immediate success, and Wood spent much of his early career on loan to various lower-league clubs, including Barnsley and Brighton & Hove Albion, where he gained valuable experience. During these loan spells, Wood’s growth as a striker was evident, and he became known for his ability to score goals consistently.
In 2013, Wood made the move to Leicester City, a club where he began to truly shine. His time at Leicester was marked by both individual success and team accomplishments, with Wood playing a key role in their promotion to the Premier League. His goalscoring ability continued to develop, and Wood quickly became known as a reliable forward.
Following his time at Leicester, Wood made a high-profile move to Leeds United in 2017. At Leeds, he became one of the top goal scorers in the Championship and was instrumental in their push for promotion to the Premier League. His performances at Leeds earned him a move to Burnley in 2020, where he continued to establish himself as a prominent Premier League striker. Wood’s physicality, aerial ability, and knack for scoring goals made him a valuable asset in the Premier League, where he played for Burnley until 2022.
In early 2022, Wood made a move to Newcastle United, where he continued to demonstrate his prowess as a forward. His time at Newcastle was marked by important goals and performances, further solidifying his status as a top-level striker.
Most recently, in 2023, Wood joined Nottingham Forest, continuing his Premier League journey. His signing was seen as a significant boost for Forest, as they sought to strengthen their attacking options in the highly competitive Premier League. Wood’s experience and leadership qualities have already had a positive impact on the team, and he continues to play a pivotal role in their offensive play.
Throughout his career, Wood has also represented New Zealand at the international level, where he has been a key figure for the national team. He has been the captain of the team and has played in numerous World Cup and qualification matches, contributing both goals and leadership. Wood’s international experience has further enhanced his reputation as one of New Zealand’s best footballers.
Chris Wood’s career trajectory is a testament to his determination, skill, and work ethic. From his early days in New Zealand to playing in some of the top football leagues in the world, he has proven himself to be one of the most consistent and talented forwards in football. His journey reflects the dedication required to succeed at the highest level, and his story continues to inspire young footballers globally.
Social Media Accounts Table
| Platform | Username | Link |
|---|---|---|
| @chriswood_1991 | Instagram Profile | |
| @OfficialChrisWood | Twitter Profile | |
| Chris Wood | Facebook Profile |
Latest News
Chris Wood is currently in the spotlight as a key player for Nottingham Forest. After his loan transfer from Newcastle United, Wood has been making headlines with his contributions to the team’s attack in the Premier League. Fans are especially excited about his performance in recent matches, where he has shown remarkable consistency, leading to speculation about his future in the team and potential transfers.
Height and Physical Appearance
Chris Wood stands at an impressive 1.91 meters (6 ft 3 in), giving him a commanding presence on the pitch, especially in aerial duels. His tall stature complements his role as a forward, where his physicality allows him to hold up play and win headers. With a strong and athletic build, Wood’s appearance matches his robust style of play, which combines strength with skill.
Net Worth as of 2025
As of 2025, Chris Wood’s net worth is estimated to be around $15 million. His wealth has been accumulated through his football career, endorsements, and successful contract negotiations with various clubs. His prominent roles at Burnley, Leeds United, and Nottingham Forest have contributed significantly to his financial standing, making him one of New Zealand’s wealthiest footballers.
FAQs
- How much does Chris Wood get paid?
Chris Wood’s salary at Nottingham Forest is estimated at around £60,000 per week. - How many goals has Chris Wood scored for Newcastle?
As of 2025, Chris Wood has scored 4 goals for Newcastle United since joining in 2022. - What is Chris Wood famous for?
Chris Wood is famous for his role as a prolific striker in the Premier League, especially noted for his aerial ability and goal-scoring consistency. - Did Chris Wood play in the Premier League?
Yes, Chris Wood has played in the Premier League for clubs including Burnley, Newcastle United, and Nottingham Forest.
For more on football and its impact, check out this detailed biography of Marcus Rashford, a player who, like Chris Wood, has made a significant mark in the world of sports.
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