The U.S. men’s national soccer team (USMNT) is grappling with comprehending the growing impact of its ongoing World Cup run, as the squad resumes training in Irvine, California. Despite being the focal point of a surge in national attention, many players remain somewhat detached from the full scope of the tournament’s influence back home.
The team’s training camp, situated about an hour south of the main World Cup hub in Los Angeles, provides a relatively private environment removed from the intense media spotlight. Most players live in Europe or have strong ties there, which adds to the sense of separation. Their primary focus remains on upcoming matches, including a scheduled game against Turkey on Thursday.
Still, the players are becoming increasingly aware of the expanding enthusiasm among American fans. Folarin Balogun, one of the squad’s breakout stars, described efforts to grasp the widespread excitement by watching videos shared by teammates and social media, showing fans celebrating in bars and other venues across the country. “Every time we score, they’re celebrating in different places,” Balogun said. “It’s not something any of us can fully comprehend because we’re in it. I think once we’re out of it and getting on with our daily lives, we’ll be able to see the impact."
This World Cup run has the potential to significantly shape the players’ careers and American soccer’s profile. Balogun’s rising prominence, for instance, is expected to increase his transfer value and endorsement opportunities, while U.S. Soccer aims to capitalize on the momentum to boost interest in the sport year-round—including higher attendance at domestic games and increased youth participation.
The players acknowledge these aspirations but often experience the tournament’s cultural moments more subtly during the matches. Alex Freeman, who gained national attention after scoring against Australia, noted that the full weight of fan support often becomes clear only after the game, when the team joins the crowd in celebratory songs and shared joy. “In the game, you don’t realize how much support you have in the stands,” Freeman said. “Afterwards, we take it all in and see what an incredible support system we have in U.S. fans.”
The origins of some players have also become part of the narrative fueling fan interest. Balogun’s story, including how his mother was prevented from boarding a flight and gave birth in Brooklyn, has resonated widely, adding to the team’s growing lore.
How far this moment takes U.S. soccer remains to be seen. Midfielder Tyler Adams expressed hope that the current enthusiasm extends beyond dedicated fans to attract casual spectators and newcomers. “To have a whole nation behind you, that’s something special,” he said. “I want every game to matter to common spectators or people who don’t even enjoy soccer. They know our players’ names now; they want to be the next whoever. That’s what growth is about, and we have the possibility to do that.”
As the team advances in the tournament, moments of realization about their broader cultural impact are expected to multiply, potentially accelerating the sport’s popularity across the United States.