As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, the composition of the U.S. men’s national soccer team offers a contemporary reflection of the country’s long-standing immigrant roots. The team’s diverse makeup—featuring players born abroad as well as those with immigrant parents or grandparents—underscores the ongoing role of immigration in shaping American identity.

Among the 26 players training ahead of their upcoming World Cup elimination match against Belgium, six were born outside the United States. Five others have parents who immigrated to the country, while two more have immigrant grandparents or great-grandparents. Nearly half of the squad holds dual nationality, highlighting the team’s international connections alongside their American allegiance, symbolized by the U.S. flag worn over their hearts during matches.

This multicultural dynamic is widely seen as a source of strength and unity rather than division. Faisal Al-Juburi, co-chief executive of a Texas-based nonprofit focused on humanitarian aid and immigration services, described the team as reflecting “America at its best,” pointing to its global roots and shared sense of purpose. Al-Juburi emphasized that the team serves as a symbol of inclusion, blending diverse backgrounds much like a culinary “gumbo” where different ingredients enrich the whole.

The presence of dual-national players such as Folarin Balogun, who was born and raised in England but holds U.S. citizenship by birthright, and Malik Tillman, born to a U.S. serviceman in Germany, illustrates how the team’s recruitment draws from a global pool. Others include Antonee Robinson, born in England to a naturalized American father, and Sergiño Dest, a Dutch native whose father is a Surinamese American, further exemplifying the broad heritage represented in the squad.

This embodiment of diversity on the sports field resonates with the vision of early American founders like James Wilson, one of the few men who signed both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. Wilson, an immigrant from Scotland, argued against immigration restrictions in the 18th century, warning that America would be weakened if it barred talented foreigners from contributing to its development. Although he could not have envisioned the modern phenomenon of the World Cup, his belief in the vitality brought by newcomers echoes in today’s team.

Political science professor Jules Boykoff noted that the players do not need to make explicit statements about their backgrounds; their performance on the pitch and their shared commitment to the team convey powerful messages about inclusion and national unity. As fans gather to support the U.S. men’s team, their cheers celebrate not only athletic skill but also the enduring ideals of diversity and opportunity integral to the country’s history.