This summer, the FIFA World Cup is coming to the United States and many people believe it may change the way that soccer is viewed in America. As the biggest sporting event in the world, fans from all over come together to create an atmosphere like no other sporting event in the U.S.
Senior RJ Zeising explains how the world cup compares to American events.
“I think [the World Cup] brings a much larger and more international audience. It will expose our country to more cultures and the passion and pride that soccer brings to a nation,” said Zeising.
Unlike the Super Bowl with a mainly American audience, the World Cup has viewers from all over the world. However, even though it is the biggest sporting event globally, it is nowhere near as popular in the U.S as anywhere else in the world.
“I think that because we have American football, basketball and baseball, soccer takes a bit of a backseat,” said Zeising. “In some places, soccer can be less accessible than something like basketball where you can find a court and play anywhere.”
However some people still think that accessibility could change with the arrival of the World Cup.
As the World Cup approaches, it has potential to become a turning point for soccer in the U.S and inspire millions of kids and fans.
“I really hope that the World Cup does change that, and I hope that Americans can see the passion from international fans and gain some respect for the sport,” said Zeising.
