As the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup begins, Christian Pulisic, a standout player for the United States Men’s National Team, recently shared his thoughts with PEOPLE magazine. The tournament, set to take place on American soil, marks an important chapter in Pulisic’s career as he steps into the role of captain, ready to lead his team amidst significant expectations.
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Pulisic, now 27 years old, knows all too well the intensity of competition at the highest levels of football. Having first made headlines at the tender age of 17 while playing for Borussia Dortmund in Germany, he became a prominent figure in the US Soccer landscape, being recognised as the youngest goalscorer in the modern era for the national team. As he prepares for his second World Cup, Pulisic reflects on his journey but remains humble about his stature in American soccer.
“I’m really blessed to be a part of this team,” Pulisic remarked. Speaking candidly about his almost decade-long experience with the national squad, he expressed his pride in representing the United States on a global stage. The upcoming World Cup marks the first time since 1994 that the tournament will be hosted in North America, heightening hopes and expectations for a strong performance from the team.
During the previous World Cup in Qatar, Pulisic was pivotal, contributing to every goal for the U.S. team. Now, with increased pressure on the home turf, the expectations are even higher. “Everyone has pressure,” he explained. “We want to represent our country well. We want to make the people watching and going to the games proud.”
Despite the pressures that come with international competition, Pulisic remains grounded, attributing much of his steadiness to a reliable support system made up of family and friends. The midfielder has cultivated a life outside football, ensuring that he maintains a healthy balance. “Once I step away from the field and from training every day, my life’s not all soccer,” he noted, reflecting on his approach to managing the mental aspects of the sport.
Pulisic’s career has been nurtured by his parents, Kelley and Mark Pulisic, both of whom played collegiate soccer. From an early age, his mother introduced him to the intricacies of European football, aligning with her work in a teacher exchange programme. Later, his father would move with him to Germany to support his burgeoning career. The influence and encouragement from his family have remained an integral part of his journey.
“They’ll text me before every game,” he shared, highlighting the unwavering support he receives from his parents. Regardless of their physical presence at matches, Pulisic feels their encouragement profoundly impacts his performance on the field. The connection to his family provides him with motivation, balancing the burdens that accompany his status as a high-profile athlete.
In addition to his family, the bonds developed with his teammates extend this familial support. Pulisic describes his fellow players as an extension of his family, recognising the strength of their camaraderie. “We stay in touch and we talk whenever we can,” he explained, detailing how they utilise technology to maintain their friendships, often FaceTiming between club commitments before regrouping for USMNT practices and matches.
As the U.S. prepares to welcome the world for the 2026 tournament, Pulisic expresses an excitement that resonates with fans across the nation. “To have it in the U.S. is just extra special,” he stated, affirming the unique experience of playing at such a prestigious event in his home country. This opportunity, he believes, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and the anticipated attendance at matches further fuels his eagerness.
With the World Cup approaching, Pulisic and the USMNT are ready to showcase their talents on an international stage, armed with the hopes of a nation and a renewed determination to make an impact. As the captain, he stands ready not only to lead on the field but also to inspire the next generation of American soccer players, marking an exciting chapter for both himself and the sport in the United States.