Football's enduring popularity

There are many reasons why Association Football (to give the game its proper title) aka soccer is the most popular sport globally, the most important of which is its simplicity. To enjoy either watching or playing the game takes very little time as grasping the basic rules is relatively straightforward compared to many other sports. There is no need for any expensive kit and a ball is all that is needed for a pick up game that can be played anywhere regardless of the limitations of space. From the simple initiation through to the most complex analysis of tactics, there is a multitude of different levels at which the game can be appreciated by all ages.

A further factor in the enduring popularity of the game is the pace at which it is played. Generally a quick game which can switch from one end of the pitch to the other in a matter of a few seconds, and so provides the possibility of a dynamic change in fortunes. However, the "Beautiful Game" can also be played at a more leisurely pace and this can be equally attractive as the ball is passed in pleasing patterns across the pitch before speeding up when there is a prospect of a goal.

Aesthetically, there are few more graceful sights in sport than a ball curling high into the goal. The billowing of the net that follows seems almost to be an appreciation of the beauty of that moment. Some may argue that seeing a player dribble around his mesmerised opponents, in a swirling mixture of balance and athleticism, is as magical as it can get. The truth is that there are countless expressions of grace and power, delicacy and strength, refinement and brutality within the game. With such a vast array of contrasting skills, there is ample room for everybody to indulge themselves.

More countries and people have embraced the game and have made it their national sport than any other. As the main exception to this rule the United States stands out in its reluctance to see it as a mainstream sport. The big four sports of baseball, basketball, ice hockey and American football seem sacred and cannot be shifted from their lofty perch. Soccer is so often regarded as a minority sport that college kids play and accordingly various attempts to establish a domestic league have never really made any impression on the national psyche. Is it because this is a sport that did not originate in the US or is there a deeper reason why Americans do not love the game so beloved by the majority of the world?