The countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is underway, with the United States set to host 78 of the 104 matches. US Men’s National Team (USMNT) member Diego Luna expressed his enthusiasm for this monumental event, calling it a pivotal moment for soccer in America. In an interview with TMZ Sports at Los Angeles International Airport, Luna described the upcoming World Cup as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
Luna emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “I think for the country itself, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The soccer is built here so much and to now have the World Cup come here. I think this is the biggest opportunity to kind of take that big step into making soccer a super popular sport here.” His comments reflect a growing sentiment among players and fans regarding the potential for soccer to gain a stronger foothold in American sports culture.
Looking Ahead: The Olympics and Team Dynamics
In addition to the World Cup, Los Angeles is set to host the 2028 Olympics, further elevating the profile of soccer in the region. Luna shared his thoughts on the evolving talent within the USMNT, indicating that the current roster brings a diverse range of skills and experiences. “I think we have a lot of different guys, a lot of different attributes that guys bring to the team, which is very different,” he noted. “This isn’t your original U.S. Soccer Team. We got a lot of guys that bring different things to the team, different quality of players, and I think all together with the right mindset, it leads to a really good team and performances like we just had.”
Luna’s optimism is rooted in the team’s collective potential, which he believes can lead to impressive performances as they prepare for these key international events.
Mental Health Awareness in Sports
Beyond soccer, Luna also discussed the importance of mental health awareness among athletes. He mentioned the “Love, Your Mind” campaign, which encourages sports professionals to be more open about their mental health struggles. This initiative aims to foster a supportive environment where athletes can discuss their mental well-being without stigma.
As the World Cup approaches, the excitement among players like Diego Luna highlights a crucial moment for soccer in the United States. With the potential to elevate the sport’s popularity and foster a new generation of fans, the 2026 tournament may well mark a turning point for soccer’s future in the country.
