The anticipation for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America is building, with the United States set to host 78 of the 104 matches. Diego Luna, a member of the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT), emphasizes the significance of this event, describing it as a transformative moment for soccer in the nation. In a recent interview with TMZ Sports at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Luna referred to the World Cup as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
Luna expressed his belief that the World Cup offers a unique chance to elevate soccer’s profile in the United States. “I think for the country itself, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” he stated. He noted the growth of soccer in the U.S. and the expectation that hosting the World Cup will propel the sport into the mainstream. The USMNT player believes this is the moment for soccer to become a truly popular sport in the country.
Looking Ahead to Major Sporting Events
The significance of 2026 extends beyond just the World Cup. In 2028, Los Angeles is set to host the Summer Olympics, marking another pivotal moment for sports in the region. Luna reflected on the potential synergy between these two monumental events, suggesting that they can collectively enhance the sports culture in the United States.
When discussing the current capabilities of the USMNT, Luna highlighted the diverse talents within the team. “We have a lot of different guys, a lot of different attributes that guys bring to the team, which is very different,” he shared. This new generation of players represents a shift from the traditional U.S. soccer team, bringing varied skills and perspectives that could lead to impressive performances in the coming years.
Luna’s enthusiasm for the team’s potential is evident, as he believes that with the right mindset, the players can achieve great success. His confidence reflects a broader optimism about the future of soccer in the U.S., especially with the World Cup on the horizon.
Addressing Mental Health in Sports
In addition to his thoughts on the World Cup and team dynamics, Luna also discussed the “Love, Your Mind” campaign, which encourages athletes to speak openly about mental health. He underscored the importance of mental well-being in sports, stating that more athletes are beginning to share their experiences, helping to destigmatize the conversation around mental health issues in the competitive arena.
Luna’s insights provide a glimpse into the evolving landscape of soccer in the United States, where the upcoming World Cup and Olympic Games represent not just athletic competitions, but also cultural milestones that can reshape the perception of soccer in America. As the countdown to 2026 continues, the potential impact on the sport’s popularity is immense, and players like Diego Luna are poised to play a key role in this transformative period.
