Don Garber advocates for MLS as a ‘Big 5’ U.S. league

At the Front Office Sports Tuned In summit, MLS Commissioner Don Garber expressed his belief that Major League Soccer should be viewed as one of the top five professional sports leagues in the U.S., alongside the NFL, MLB, NBA, and NHL. He acknowledged that while MLS is growing in media revenue and audience, it still does not compare to the other leagues. Garber defended MLS's media deal with Apple TV, highlighting the increase in nationally televised games. Viewership among young adults has risen since the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but specific ratings data for Apple TV matches remains unavailable. Garber will step down at the end of the year, with LAFC co-owner Larry Berg set to take over.

• 3:16 PMYahoo Sports — Don Garber Says MLS Should Be Viewed as ‘Big 5’ U.S. League