Tyler Adams Says Becoming a Dad Changed How He Handles Pressure Ahead of the World Cup (Exclusive)

“I think ultimately that’s what has allowed me on the field to really take another level and another step, because I’m not putting an immense amount of pressure on myself,” he says. “I just know what I’m capable of and I kind of get in that rhythm and in that mindset and I’m able to go to work.”

Tyler Adams for Scotts
Credit: Scotts

Now preparing for another World Cup appearance — this time on American soil — Adams says he hopes the tournament leaves a lasting impact on the future of soccer in the United States.

Growing up, Adams idolized Thierry Henry and remembers attending New York Red Bulls games with his mom whenever the soccer legend came to town following his runs with Arsenal and Barcelona. Years later, Adams would follow a similar path himself, first joining the Red Bulls before eventually making the leap to Europe; he currently plays for AFC Bournemouth.

“We look at it as an opportunity to really grow the game even more,” Adams says. “If the team is successful, then kids around the country will look at us and say, ‘I wanna be the next us.’ ”

Tyler Adams for Scotts
Credit: Scotts

Beyond the excitement surrounding the tournament, Adams also hopes the increased attention on soccer will continue fueling conversations around player safety — particularly when it comes to the ongoing debate surrounding artificial turf versus natural grass.

Having dealt with injuries throughout his own career, Adams says professional athletes immediately feel the difference between the two surfaces physically, especially when it comes to recovery and joint strain.

“No professional athlete will ever come up to you and say they’d rather play on artificial surfaces,” he says. “Playing on natural grass has a bigger benefit for your body, for your joints, for your recovery.”

Tyler Adams for Scotts
Credit: Scotts

Despite the pressure surrounding the tournament in the weeks ahead, Adams says he has no doubt American fans will rise to the occasion.

“If there’s one thing Americans know how to do, it’s when they host an event, they go all out,” he says. “I think it’s gonna be an amazing event.”

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