Will Soccer Eventually Dominate the American Sports Landscape?

Soccer, known universally as football, has recently seen a surge in popularity across the United States. Various factors are driving this rise, which may lead to the sport ultimately reigning supreme in the American sports landscape. While this certainly does not downplay the sophistication and value of other contemporary sports, like basketball, baseball, and American football, the growth trajectory of soccer highlights a potential shift in the nation's athletic preferences.

To start with, a primary factor that points towards soccer's possible dominance is its growing youth participation. It was reported that in 2019, approximately four million children were actively involved in US youth soccer programs. This has not only fed the potential talent pool for the sport, but also increased its cultural presence and appeal to younger generations. As these young players grow up in an environment where soccer is a significant aspect of their lives, they are more likely to remain fans and continue to expand soccer's following.

The increasing diversity in the American population is another catalyst for the upward trend in soccer's popularity. With immigration on the rise, many incoming residents are bringing their love for soccer from countries where the sport dominates. As these populations continue to grow, so too will the audience and fan base for soccer in America.

Advancements in technology also contribute to soccer's potential for future dominance. Modern broadcasting platforms have made it easier than ever for American audiences to tap into international soccer championships, like the UEFA Champions League and the FIFA World Cup. As a result, soccer is becoming more accessible to American viewers, developing a broader reach and larger fan base over time.

Soccer's economic potential is another factor moving it towards dominance. Several high-profile investors have shown interest in Major League Soccer (MLS), leading to expansion of teams and stadiums. These investments are steadily increasing the sport's visibility and status within the American market. This economic factor not only reflects people's willingness to spend on soccer, but also the opportunity for significant economic returns for businesses, investors, and even cities where matches are held.

Lastly, the popularity of women's soccer cannot be overstated. Unlike other sports, soccer has seen a remarkable balance in terms of gender representation and fan support. The success of the US women's national soccer team has inspired a new generation of young female athletes while creating a wave of enthusiasm for the sport across both genders.

Taken together, these factors paint a promising picture for soccer in America.

Soccer has often been cast aside as a secondary sport in America, in the shadows of American football and basketball – two sports that have dominated the country's interests for decades. However, recent trends paint a more optimistic picture for soccer enthusiasts, suggesting that soccer may, in fact, grab a sizable slice of the American sports landscape in the foreseeable future.

The quintessential markers of popularity for any sport are viewership ratings and stadium attendance. In recent years, Major League Soccer (MLS) has seen a steady rise in both these indicators. According to a Washington Post report, MLS's average per-game attendance reached 21,310 in 2019, higher than that of both National Hockey League (NHL) and Major League Baseball (MLB). In terms of television viewership, the 2018 FIFA World Cup final saw around 11.32 million viewers in the U.S, implying soccer’s audiences are also watching international matches, not just domestic ones.

Another major factor driving soccer's growth in America is the swift expansion of grassroots involvement. Youth soccer is growing rapidly in popularity, with nearly three million children registered in organized soccer leagues in 2017, according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association. This is another notable indication that soccer's popularity may rise significantly in the coming years as these young enthusiasts grow into adults with buying power.

One advantage soccer potentially has over other sports is its international appeal. With globalization and diversity in full swing, many Americans already follow international football leagues like the English Premier League or La Liga in Spain. Furthermore, an increasing number of international soccer stars are now choosing to play in the MLS, thus drawing more global attention towards American soccer.

Seeing the potential, investors are also showing significant interest in soccer. Franchise expansion has been a key area of investment in recent years, with MLS aiming for 30 teams by 2022, up from 10 in 2004. Moreover, the average MLS team value has increased over 600% in the last decade according to Forbes, indicating a substantial financial boom in the U.S soccer industry.

The inclusion of men's and women's soccer in high school and college athletic programs has also increased significantly over the years. Evidence from the National Federation of State High School Associations shows that between 2009 and 2019, the number of boys' soccer teams increased by 9%, while girls' teams saw an even greater rise of 17% - a testament to soccer's growing acceptance at the grassroots level.