Why the U.S. Still Struggles to Become a Soccer Powerhouse

Thirty-two years after hosting the 1994 World Cup, the United States has a far stronger soccer culture, but its men’s national team still underperforms. Since then, the U.S. men have reached the World Cup quarterfinals only once, failed to qualify for Russia 2018, and continue to fall short even as MLS grows and the women’s team, the Olympic champion, ranks second in the world.

The article argues that part of the problem is structural and financial. Soccer in the U.S. is expensive, with youth travel costs for away games often about $500 one way before hotel expenses, plus annual academy fees that can run into the thousands. Because the system is largely pay-to-play, many talented children from lower-income families never enter the sport. As Jürgen Klopp said, “The best footballers in the world do not come from the richest areas.”

A second explanation is cultural and gender-based. Soccer in the United States is still more closely associated with girls and women than with boys, reinforced by the “soccer mom” image and by the fact that women embraced the sport early. Psychologist Rachel Allison said that, unlike in Europe, soccer in America became a space women could claim as their own. The article argues that this perception, unfair as it is, may push athletic boys toward basketball, football, or other sports.

U.S. players and coaches also say Americans are undervalued abroad. Christian Pulisic said, “They disrespect American players,” while Weston McKennie said he has “gotten used to” being treated differently. The piece notes that half of the current squad, 13 of 26 players, are in top European leagues, but mostly at smaller clubs. The author concludes that a strong showing at the home 2026 World Cup, possibly including another quarterfinal run, could bring millions more Americans to soccer.