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As the United States hosts the FIFA World Cup for the first time since 1994, many Americans are celebrating more than just the team’s strong performance on the field. Several members of the U.S. Men’s National Team are openly sharing their faith in Christ and using one of the world’s biggest sporting stages to point others toward God.
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Following a dominant opening victory, players publicly demonstrated the spiritual bond that has become an important part of the team’s culture.
From CBN:
After the team’s victory over Paraguay, defender Mark McKenzie led the 2026 team in a group prayer.
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Star winger Christian Pulisic is a leader on and off the field, too, talking about his “Bible Time” and even sharing Bible verses on his Instagram.
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The U.S. national team’s goalkeeper, Matt Freese, recently spoke with Sports Spectrum’s “What’s Up” podcast on how his Christian faith opens doors for his career. “God’s given me so many opportunities within this game and within my career. I still have a role to play in that. I still have to do my part and take that opportunity and do something with it,” Freese said.
Pulisic has long been one of the most visible Christian athletes in American soccer. In his documentary series, he highlighted the importance of regularly studying Scripture with teammates, describing a men’s Bible study that has become a meaningful part of his routine. He has also publicly credited God with helping him overcome challenges and maintain confidence under pressure.
Other players have followed a similar example. Midfielder Weston McKennie openly proclaims “All glory to God” on social media, while defender Chris Richards has helped organize Bible studies during his professional career. Together, these athletes are demonstrating that faith remains a significant influence within the national team.
The spiritual foundation of the U.S. Men’s National Team extends beyond the current roster. Former national team player Jesse Bradley recently shared how his faith and love for soccer inspired him to launch World Cup watch-party outreaches. Through his church, Bradley is distributing watch-party kits designed to bring people together around the tournament while creating opportunities to share the Gospel.
The timing is especially significant as the World Cup draws massive global audiences. Millions of viewers will watch the U.S. team compete over the coming weeks, giving these athletes an opportunity to demonstrate both excellence in competition and faithfulness in their witness.
The team’s public expressions of faith serve as an encouraging reminder that God can use every arena of life—including sports—to advance His kingdom. Whether through postgame prayers, Bible studies, or public testimony, these players are showing that success and faith can go hand in hand.
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(Excerpt from CBN. Photo Credit: Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images)
