How popular is soccer?

Soccer, also known as football in most parts of the world, is one of the most popular sports globally. While the provided statistics are from 2006 and 2012, they do indicate a significant level of participation and interest in the sport within the United States. However, to provide a more current perspective, it's important to note that the popularity of soccer has continued to grow worldwide, especially among the younger generations. According to the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), the sport's governing body, there are over 300 million people playing soccer at different levels around the world. The FIFA World Cup, which takes place every four years, is one of the most-watched sporting events globally, with the 2018 tournament attracting an estimated 3.572 billion viewers. In the United States, soccer has been gaining momentum, with Major League Soccer (MLS) expanding and attracting high-profile players from around the world. Additionally, the U.S. women's national team has been particularly successful, winning multiple FIFA Women's World Cup titles, which has further increased the sport's popularity. In conclusion, soccer's popularity is immense, with a vast number of players and fans across the globe. While the sport may not be the most popular in every country—particularly in the United States, where American football, basketball, and baseball also have strong followings—it is undoubtedly a significant cultural phenomenon.

Popularity. As of 2006, over 24 million Americans play soccer. There are 4.2 million players (2.5 million male and 1.7 million female) registered with U.S. Soccer. As of 2012, thirty percent of American households contain someone playing soccer, a figure second only to baseball.