Soccer Revolution Booms in the U.S. Ahead of World Cups

The United States is primed for a soccer revolution as anticipation builds for the upcoming World Cups in 2026 and potentially 2027, according to NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman. Speaking at the Financial Times' Business of Football summit in London, Berman expressed her confidence in the imminent surge of interest in soccer across the nation. Berman highlighted the significant impact of the upcoming global tournaments on the growth of soccer in the U.S., emphasizing that the country is on the brink of a soccer boom. With the successful performance of the U.S. women's national team and the excitement surrounding the upcoming World Cup events, Berman noted that soccer has captured the hearts of Americans, describing it as a sport that embodies greatness and is closely associated with women's soccer in the country. The NWSL, set to kick off its 2024 season on March 16 with the Kansas City Current facing the Portland Thorns, is also poised for growth. In a major development for the league, the NWSL recently secured a new four-year media rights deal with CBS Sports, ESPN, Prime Video, and Scripps Sports starting in 2024. This partnership is expected to further elevate the visibility and popularity of the women's league in the sports media landscape. Berman underscored the NWSL's strength in its independence, distinguishing it from many male-dominated clubs and leagues, particularly in Europe. This independence has been a cornerstone of the NWSL's success, allowing it to carve out its own path and identity within the soccer world. Michelle Kang, owner of the Washington Spirit, Lyon, and London City Lionesses, echoed the sentiment, suggesting that a multi-club ownership model could offer a promising future for women's clubs in the sport. As soccer continues to gain momentum in the U.S., fueled by upcoming global tournaments and the growing popularity of women's soccer, the stage is set for a transformative period in American soccer. With the NWSL at the forefront of this movement, the future looks bright for soccer enthusiasts and players alike as the sport reaches new heights of success and recognition in the country.