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SoccerAfrica

US soccer celebrates Black culture

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Danya Barsalona
June 21, 2026

Many fans marked Juneteenth, the holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the US, as they watched the US team play in the World Cup. Though soccer was once largely seen as a white, suburban sport, Black players and fans are playing a growing role in the game.

Fans marked Juneteenth — commemorating the end of slavery in the US — while watching the national men's soccer team in the World Cup, highlighting the growing presence of Black players. Once seen as a largely white sport, soccer is becoming more diverse. Players and fans say increased representation is inspiring younger generations and reshaping the game's cultural impact.

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