Kam Curl: 'Crazy' NFL Stars Pay Full Price for World Cup Tickets

Washington Commanders safety Kam Curl has sparked a conversation among sports fans after calling it 'crazy' that NFL stars have to pay full price for World Cup tickets. The comment, made during a recent interview, sheds light on the staggering demand and exclusivity of soccer's premier international tournament.

The quote that turned heads

Curl, a rising defensive back for the Commanders, expressed surprise that even multimillionaire athletes can't get a discount or a free pass to World Cup matches. While NFL players often receive complimentary tickets or VIP access to other events, the World Cup appears to operate on a different level. The global nature of the tournament means tickets are fiercely contested, with millions of fans from around the world vying for a limited supply.

Why it matters for NFL and soccer fans

This revelation underscores the immense popularity of the FIFA World Cup, which attracts a global audience that dwarfs even the NFL's reach. For American football fans, it's a reminder of soccer's growing footprint in the United States, especially as the country prepares to co-host the 2026 World Cup. The fact that an NFL star like Curl isn't immune to the scramble for tickets shows how the tournament transcends leagues and sports.

The bigger picture

Curl's comment also highlights the evolving relationship between American football and soccer. As more NFL players and fans engage with the beautiful game, the cultural lines continue to blur. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, the demand for tickets among U.S. sports figures is likely to intensify. For now, even the wealthiest athletes have to line up and pay full price like everyone else — a stark reminder that in the world of soccer, no one gets a free pass.