He made his senior debut for the USMNT in 1988, earning 101 caps and keeping 35 clean sheets throughout his international career.

In a notable attempt to diversify his athletic career, Meola tried to join the NFL as a placekicker for the New York Jets in 1994 but was cut during training camp.

Meola's professional career spanned 18 years, during which he made nearly 300 appearances at the club level.

In a message to fans on February 22, 2025, Meola reassured them, stating, 'I will be OK' and highlighted the importance of regular health checkups.

He expressed that if his experience encourages others to seek medical advice, it would be worthwhile, admitting he should have been more proactive about his health.

Former USMNT goalkeeper Tony Meola suffered a heart attack on February 20, 2025, just one day before his 56th birthday.

Since his retirement, he has served as a television analyst for various networks including beIN Sports, Fox, CBS Golazo, and Sirius radio.

He played five seasons in Major League Soccer with the MetroStars/Red Bulls and six seasons with Sporting Kansas City, achieving 63 clean sheets in 250 games.

In addition to his domestic career, Meola had a brief stint in England with Watford and Brighton & Hove Albion, and has worked as a television commentator since retiring in 2007.

Doctors have confirmed that Meola will recover from the heart attack.

Meola had a distinguished soccer career, playing in three World Cups for the U.S. national team, serving as the starting goalie in 1990 and 1994, and as a backup in 2002.

During his time with the national team, he won four trophies, including two Gold Cups in 1991 and 2002.