Why do Americans call it soccer not football? You can blame England

In the United States, the beautiful game is known as 'soccer,' a term that often perplexes international fans who refer to it as 'football.' The origins of this linguistic divergence can be traced back to England itself, where the word 'soccer' was first coined.

The Birth of 'Soccer'

In the late 19th century, England saw the rise of two different codes of football: rugby football and association football. To differentiate between the two, Oxford University students began to colloquially refer to association football as 'assoccer,' which was later shortened to 'soccer.' Meanwhile, rugby football was simply called 'rugger.'

Why the U.S. Adopted 'Soccer'

As the sport made its way across the Atlantic, Americans adopted the term 'soccer' to distinguish it from American football, which was rapidly gaining popularity. The distinction was crucial in a country where 'football' traditionally referred to the gridiron sport.

England's Shift Away from 'Soccer'

Ironically, as the 20th century progressed, the term 'soccer' fell out of favor in England, with 'football' becoming the dominant term. However, by then, 'soccer' was already well-established in the United States.

Today, while the term 'soccer' is often met with bemusement or even derision by fans abroad, its English origins serve as a reminder of the global journey of the sport and the cultural nuances that shape its identity in different countries.

Conclusion

In essence, while Americans calling the sport 'soccer' might seem peculiar, it's a twist of historical fate for which England itself is responsible. As soccer continues to grow in popularity in the U.S., understanding its linguistic roots offers a fascinating glimpse into the sport's rich history and evolution.