This is a strange new trend.
When President Donald Trump targets allies with tough rhetoric, betting on the U.S. to win the next sporting event might not be the safest wager.
Did Trump’s Tough Talk Cost the U.S. Another Game?
Last week, Panama shocked American soccer fans by beating the U.S. men’s national soccer team (USMNT) 1-0 in the Concacaf Nations League semifinals. Cecilio Waterman scored a dramatic stoppage-time goal at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, ending America’s dream of securing a fourth consecutive Concacaf title.
Just days later, Canada delivered another blow. Despite Trump’s controversial comments about Canada becoming America’s “51st state,” the Canadian men’s soccer team triumphed 2-1 in the third-place match. Jonathan David’s decisive goal in the 59th minute handed the U.S. its second loss in four days—a tough pill to swallow for fans preparing to host the 2026 World Cup.
Panama and Canada Respond to Trump’s Rhetoric—On the Field
These losses appear to follow a pattern: whenever Trump confronts U.S. allies, America’s sports teams seem to pay the price. Months of criticism directed at Panama over control of the Panama Canal—Trump suggesting reclaiming it due to alleged Chinese influence—triggered diplomatic friction. Although Panama responded by awarding key contracts to American companies, their soccer team still delivered a painful defeat.
Relations with Canada, America’s close neighbor, have been even more turbulent. Trump’s repeated references to Canada as America’s “51st state,” combined with his economic measures like tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum, have sparked strong reactions north of the border.
The Price of Political Jabs: U.S. Teams Keep Losing
During February’s “4 Nations Face-Off” hockey championship, Trump’s jabs energized Canadian players, fueling an emotional overtime victory against Team USA. Canadian fans booed the U.S. anthem, and multiple fights erupted on the ice, underscoring Canada’s passionate defense of its national pride.
Former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau sharply responded, declaring: “You can’t take our country—and you can’t take our game.”
An Awkward Moment Ahead of the 2026 World Cup
These recent sports setbacks highlight growing tensions between the U.S. and its longtime allies. Canadian soccer coach Jesse Marsch, an American himself, publicly urged Trump to “stop the ridiculous talk about Canada becoming the 51st state,” emphasizing the embarrassment this rhetoric brings.
Trump frequently cites America’s co-hosting of the 2026 World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico as a diplomatic win. Yet, recent losses suggest America may need to rebuild relationships—and victories—if the U.S. hopes to regain its standing both on and off the field.
As Trump recently noted to FIFA, “Soccer is booming and becoming America’s game.” But for now, the scoreboard tells another story.
Do you think President Trump’s rhetoric is affecting America’s sports teams?