A record 30 million viewers watched the USA’s loss to Belgium in the World Cup, making it the most-watched English-language soccer broadcast in US history.
The massive audience was just one sign of the growing interest in soccer in the US, with many Americans discovering the sport for the first time during the tournament. Jamie Druley, a 51-year-old car salesman from Indiana, is one example – he went from being an “NFL-obsessed” fan to considering buying season tickets to his local soccer club, Fort Wayne FC.
Soccer Fandom Takes Off
Druley’s transformation is not unique, with many Americans proclaiming themselves avid new soccer fans thanks to the US co-hosting the 2026 tournament. Pennsylvania mother Courtney Silbaugh, 33, is another example – she has watched every World Cup game except for six and now considers soccer her favorite sport.
Banker and grandmother Heather Earhart, 54, has also caught the soccer bug, and is now watching tutorials on YouTube to learn more about the game. She’s even considering following a Manchester team and attending games at a soccer bar in Indianapolis.
The surge in interest isn’t limited to viewership, with many organizations reporting an increase in inquiries about playing the sport. Nate Roberts, a soccer coach in Connecticut, says his organization is starting a pickup league due to the high demand.
A New Era for US Soccer
The World Cup has brought a new level of excitement and enthusiasm to the sport in the US, with many Americans drawn to the positivity, sportsmanship, and global camaraderie displayed by fans. As the US continues to grow as a soccer nation, it’s likely that the sport will become an even bigger part of American culture.
The impact of the World Cup on US soccer fans will be felt for years to come, with a new generation of fans discovering the joy and excitement of the sport. As the US looks to the future, it’s clear that soccer is here to stay, and its popularity will only continue to grow.
