Football, also known as soccer in the United States,
has gained significant popularity in the country over the years. While American football (with an oval-shaped ball) is the most widely followed sport in the United States, soccer has seen a rise in interest and participation.
The top professional soccer league in the United States is Major League Soccer (MLS). Established in 1993, MLS has grown steadily and now features 27 teams from across the United States and Canada. Some of the most successful and popular MLS teams include LA Galaxy, Seattle Sounders FC, Atlanta United FC, and New York City FC.
In addition to MLS, there are lower-tier professional leagues, such as the USL Championship and USL League One, which provide opportunities for teams in smaller markets. These leagues serve as a developmental platform for young players aspiring to reach the MLS or even play internationally.
The U.S. men's national soccer team
(USMNT) represents the country in international competitions, including the FIFA World Cup. While the USMNT has had its ups and downs, there has been a noticeable improvement in recent years, with several promising young talents emerging and the team showing strong performances.
On the women's side, the U.S. women's national soccer team (USWNT) is one of the most successful teams in the world. They have won multiple FIFA Women's World Cup titles and Olympic gold medals, and their players, such as Megan Rapinoe, Alex Morgan, and Carli Lloyd, have become household names.
Soccer is also popular at the collegiate level in the United States, with many universities fielding competitive teams. The NCAA organizes soccer championships for both men and women, attracting a passionate following among college sports fans.