Today kicks off the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. The world is excited. Well, every country except the USA. I take that back, there are plenty of people in the US who will be watching as much World Cup action as possible these next few weeks, but I would say as a majority, the US is just not that into it.
For some reason, the appeal is just not there. My only explanation is the fact that most soccer games are low scoring affairs. This would also explain why hockey does not have as much of a following as the other sports. Hockey does have some great physicality to it that can draw people in. Soccer is a more strategic game of possession and progress rather than big hits and flashiness. There aren't many goals, but there is great play in between. At the very least, what needs to be appreciated is the sheer athleticism of the soccer players themselves. These athletes are constantly on the run for 2 45-minute halves, all the while bumping and racing the other players. I'd like to see any baseball or NFL player try to keep up.
I am actually not that interested in comparing sports; I will resign to the fact that soccer just won't be popular here in the states when compared to the other major sports. This fact is fine with me, it means that the actual followers are real fans and the interest will be more genuine. For now, it is time to sit back and enjoy some world class soccer matches and be happy to share the emotion and experience with the rest of the world, albeit less enthusiastic. If the US team makes a deep run, perhaps the story may change.
No comments:
Post a Comment