Controversy erupted as U.S. Women’s Soccer captain, Lindsey Horan, bashes American soccer fans for not being knowledgeable about the game. The midfielder caught heat for claiming that American fans don’t understand soccer on the same level as other countries, specifically pointing to French fans as having a better understanding of the sport.
In an interview with The Athletic, Horan stated, “American soccer fans, most of them aren’t smart. They don’t know the game. They don’t understand.”
But her remarks were met with backlash from retired men’s professional soccer star Alexi Lalas and other fans. Lalas took to social media to criticize Horan’s approach, sarcastically calling it a “bold strategy” during a crucial time for the women’s team.
So, not satisfied with already turning off many Americans who don’t watch soccer, evidently the #USWNT has now set their sights on turning off many Americans who do watch soccer. Bold strategy. https://t.co/oBHEDTglj4
— Alexi Lalas (@AlexiLalas) February 2, 2024
Despite criticism, Horan doubled down on her opinion, adding that playing in France has exposed her to fans who truly “know football.”
However, Lalas wasn’t having it. He disputed Horan’s claims, saying, “I actually think American soccer fans are arguably some of the most educated, interesting, and well-rounded in the game.”
Lalas went on to argue that because soccer is not the most popular sport in the U.S., American fans have had to actively seek and discover the game, giving them a unique appreciation and view of soccer compared to other countries. He also pointed out that American fans have a more diverse soccer palette, as they are exposed to a wide range of styles, leagues, and players from around the world.
I actually think American soccer fans are arguably some of the most educated, interesting, and well-rounded in the game. In a country where soccer isn’t king, American soccer fans have often had to seek and discover the game, domestically and internationally. This proactive…
— Alexi Lalas (@AlexiLalas) February 2, 2024
Horan’s comments were also met with raised eyebrows due to the team’s controversial focus on outside issues, such as far-left activism. This has caused some to question where the team’s priorities lie and if they are truly focused on their performance on the field.
It seems Horan may have struck a nerve with her fellow Americans, who take pride in their knowledge and understanding of the game. And with increasing scrutiny on the U.S. team’s outside distractions, her comments only added fuel to the fire.
Horan’s bold remarks have ignited a heated conversation within the soccer community. As the U.S. Women’s Soccer team prepares for the upcoming Olympics, they may want to focus on their performance on the field rather than stirring up controversy off of it.
