For decades, the United States remained largely unmoved by the allure of football, often called soccer in America. However, according to Guardian US soccer correspondent Jeff Rueter, a lifelong fan of the sport, that sentiment is shifting dramatically.
From ramshackle beginnings to a thriving national team
Rueter describes football in America as a 'ramshackle' affair—unloved, boring, and somewhat alien to the mainstream sports culture. But the US men's national team is now thriving in the World Cup they are hosting, capturing the attention of a nation. The team's success on the pitch, combined with the electric atmosphere created by travelling fans from around the globe, is winning over American audiences.
American fans won over by global football culture
From Scottish supporters in Boston to Algerian fans in Kansas City, the influx of international football enthusiasts is helping to transform the local perception of the sport. Rueter notes that the energy and passion displayed by these visiting fans have been contagious, sparking a newfound interest among Americans who previously had little connection to the game.
The podcast episode, hosted by Helen Pidd, delves into these developments and explores whether the United States has finally fallen in love with football. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, the trend appears poised to accelerate, potentially cementing football's place in the American sports landscape.
