Soccer's rise in America highlighted as World Cup approaches
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 14, 2026, 10:01 AM
Last updated Jun 14, 2026
Soccer has surpassed baseball to become the third most popular sport in the U.S., according to Ampere Analysis. This development comes as the country prepares to co-host the men's World Cup with Canada and Mexico. Eleven U.S. cities will host matches leading to the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19. The growth reflects a significant cultural shift, with increasing participation and support for domestic leagues.
- •Soccer now ranks behind football and basketball in popularity.
- •The U.S. has hosted or co-hosted four World Cups, including upcoming tournaments.
- •Cultural embrace evident in supporter groups and national enthusiasm.
- 10:01 AMYahoo Sports — How soccer won over America and became part of U.S. sports culture
"It's a sporting miracle: How soccer went from obscurity to America's third most popular sport.
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