Trump praises Pelé as the greatest soccer player during FIFA Club World Cup

On July 13, 2025, in the United States, Donald Trump attended the FIFA Club World Cup final held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where he witnessed Chelsea triumph over Paris Saint-Germain. Following the match, Trump engaged in a light-hearted conversation with DAZN reporter Emily Austin, where he discussed the terminology differences between the American and British usages of 'soccer' and 'football'. Trump humorously suggested he could sign an executive order to change the term used in the US. He also expressed his admiration for the FIFA president, Gianni Infantino, acknowledging his efforts in organizing the match in preparation for the upcoming World Cup in North America. During the interview, one topic of discussion was the identity of the greatest soccer player of all time. Trump reminisced about watching Pelé, the famed Brazilian soccer player, play for the New York Cosmos in the 1970s. He referred to the excitement and large audiences that Pelé attracted, noting the significant impression the player left on him during his youth. Trump concluded that Pelé’s contributions to soccer positioned him as the greatest, likening this admiration to how some might regard Babe Ruth in baseball. Pelé remains a pivotal figure in the sport, often celebrated for his extraordinary skills and achievements.