Over the past two weeks, European football players have been travelling across America for the FIFA World Cup. Many have been posting updates on X/Twitter that have generated millions of views and endeared these young men to millions of Americans nationwide.

In one post, a young man says: “I’ve been driving for five minutes now and I can’t wipe this smile off my face… I’m driving a RAM truck in America – look how sick this is!”

He later adds: “Yeehaw! Pray for freedom!” Other videos show players expressing shock at free refills, or discovering Ella Langley – queen of modern American country music – for the first time.

An account of a German football fan with the username @FreddyLA7 has gone viral for the owner’s appreciation of American culture and countryside. The account now boasts over 400,000 views, with hundreds of thousands following along as the owner posts pictures of Buc-ee’s, expresses awe at Waffle House and marvels at the fact that Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World has a shooting range in the store.

Most endearing of all, however, was @FreddyLA7’s appreciation for the beauty of the American countryside. “The vibes are insane,” he wrote in one post, which accompanied a video of Louisiana. “It’s crazy how diverse this country is, every day the scenery looks different.”

Why are these European football players such a sensation at the moment? I believe it’s because they’re reminding Americans of our national pride, and the need to be grateful for it.

As Americans approach the 250th birthday of our nation, many think America is declining. Political vitriol has divided neighbours who might be friends, while the far-left takeover of American education has made many fearful about the future. Each election cycle feels exhausting and intense – many recognise that our constitutionally protected rights hang in the balance.

Compounding these political concerns is a decreased appreciation for the land itself. I once read a beautiful piece arguing that being American meant different things depending on where in the nation you lived. The vastness of our nation, and the differing geography, scenery and climate, were once pivotal parts of an individual’s identity. The grit, perseverance and love of the land inspired enormous pride in the hearts of America’s first settlers. They knew this was a special land – with all its unique and beautiful territories – and they were grateful for it.

I believe that’s why so many Americans resonate with the European football players’ posts today. They’ve reminded us that we are the inheritors of an incredibly diverse, beautiful country. The European football players’ posts express awe and wonder at our American legacy that many of us only experienced through history books about America’s founders. In just two weeks, they’ve shown more gratitude for our legacy than most Americans express in a lifetime.

Americans should learn from their example and be more grateful for and proud of their nation – especially ahead of its 250th birthday. We may have problems, but we’re still a global beacon of freedom, democracy and human rights. Seeing America through the eyes of foreigners is a powerful reminder of the gift it is to be an American.

The best part of it all? The European football players are thus far only expressing wonder at our national beauty, fast-food chains, country music and gun stores. Just wait until they read our Bill of Rights and see what else they’re missing.

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