While Americans and Canadians typically use "soccer," the British, along with other football powerhouses like Brazil, Portugal, Spain, Argentina, and Germany, use variations of "football." Trump acknowledged the challenge of changing the established term in the US but expressed willingness to issue an executive order mandating the change if possible. "We could do that," he stated in an interview with British sports channel DAZN on 14/7, when asked about such a decree.

Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino recently attended the FIFA Club World Cup final between Chelsea and PSG at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Chelsea won 3-0, and Trump joined Infantino on the field for the trophy presentation. Despite being encouraged to step aside, Trump remained on stage as Chelsea captain Reece James lifted the cup. He also revealed that FIFA presented the Oval Office with a replica of the FIFA Club World Cup trophy.

Former President Donald Trump stands with Chelsea during the FIFA Club World Cup trophy ceremony at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on 14/7/2025. _Photo: Reuters_

Trump praised the tournament as a major event and called Infantino a friend. "FIFA did a very good job and the tournament was great," he added. "The final was also a shocker. I couldn't believe the result."

On the topic of the US becoming a soccer powerhouse, Trump commented, "America is very popular, and soccer will be, too. Soccer in the US is hot, and great players will emerge. When I flew to MetLife Stadium, the stands were packed with fans. Soccer represents unity, bringing people and nations together. It's the most international sport and it will certainly unite the world."

Trump named Pele as the greatest player of all time. "My old friend, Steve Ross, brought Pele to the US to play for the New York Cosmos. He was an inspiration, drawing huge crowds to Giants Stadium, the predecessor to MetLife. I went to see Pele play, and the atmosphere was incredible. Pele was like Babe Ruth in baseball. He was truly great."

Pele joined the New York Cosmos at 35, already a three-time World Cup champion. He played 107 games over three seasons in the US, scoring 66 goals.

Before the 2025 Club World Cup, Infantino predicted that soccer would become the top sport in the US within a few years, provided that Major League Soccer (MLS) implements a promotion and relegation system to increase competition. Fan attendance has surged since Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami. Last season, MLS attracted a total of 12.1 million fans, the second highest globally, behind only the English Premier League.

Hoang An (_DAZN_)