The World Cup's Unlikely Winner: American Soccer and National Pride As the 2026 FIFA World Cup comes to a close in the United States, President Donald Trump has hailed it as a triumph of his administration's efforts.
But beyond the politics and controversies surrounding the tournament, a more profound story is unfolding – one that speaks to the complexities of American identity.
In the lead up to the World Cup, Trump's government faced criticism for its handling of visa applications from countries deemed high risk by U. S. authorities.