Landon Donovan Says Two Factors Will Define Success For U.S. Soccer In The World Cup

Summary

• Landon Donovan discusses the 2026 World Cup as a potential transformative event for U.S. soccer, similar to the impact of the 1994 World Cup, but cautions against overhyping it.
• Defines success for the U.S. men's national team as a deep run into the tournament (beyond the group stage) and the creation of iconic moments that resonate widely, especially via social media.
• Notes that MLS owners are now predominantly billionaires, and hopes the World Cup will inspire them to increase spending on players and league infrastructure to accelerate growth.
• Criticizes the current state of youth soccer in the U.S., describing it as greedy and overly focused on winning at young ages, which stifles player development and love for the game.
• Mentions the MLS media rights deal with Apple TV, highlighting that it was initially behind a double paywall but was adjusted to free access with an Apple TV subscription to broaden audience reach.
• Expresses personal interest in minority ownership roles in soccer teams, using Tom Brady's involvement with the Las Vegas Raiders as a model, but acknowledges challenges due to legacy owners.
• Shares candid details about his mental health struggles, including three major depressive episodes, one drug-induced in Cambodia, and how therapy and meditation helped him cope.
• Emphasizes that his new book focuses on mental health and personal challenges, aiming to help others, particularly those from single-parent households or with depression.
• Points out that financial incentives in youth soccer are misaligned, contributing to the U.S. not producing world-class players at the rate of other countries.
• Discusses the balance for current players between club salaries and national team pride, suggesting that instilling national pride is crucial for team success.