Sports play an important role in American life, intertwined with the culture and passion of millions. From football, basketball, baseball, soccer, and ice hockey to other sports like NASCAR racing, tennis, golf, professional wrestling, and boxing, each sport reflects distinct values and characteristics of America.

American Football

American football is the most popular sport in the United States, closely connected to the lives and culture of millions. This sport not only provides entertainment but also reflects the spirit of teamwork and cultural values of Americans.

The NFL (National Football League) is the top professional football league in the US, featuring 32 teams competing from September to February of the following year. The NFL has produced many outstanding players, such as Tom Brady, Patrick Mahomes, and Aaron Rodgers.

The Super Bowl is the NFL championship game, held every February. It is the most-watched sporting event in America, with hundreds of millions of viewers watching on television and online.

As of Week 11 of the 2024 NFL season, the leading teams include:

• AFC East: Buffalo Bills with a record of 9 wins – 2 losses.
• AFC North: Pittsburgh Steelers with a record of 8 wins – 2 losses.
• AFC West: Kansas City Chiefs with a record of 9 wins – 1 loss.
• NFC East: Philadelphia Eagles with a record of 8 wins – 2 losses.
• NFC North: Detroit Lions with a record of 9 wins – 1 loss.

Basketball

Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the United States, with widespread participation from school levels to professional ranks.

The NBA (National Basketball Association) is the premier professional basketball league in the US, attracting the attention of millions of fans worldwide.

The NBA consists of 30 teams, divided into 2 conferences: Eastern Conference and Western Conference. Some famous teams include the Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics, and Chicago Bulls. Players like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant continue to be standout stars.

Important Events:

• NBA All-Star Game: Held in February each year, featuring the best players from the two conferences.
• NBA Playoffs: Starting in April, determining the champion of the season.
• NBA Finals: The championship game occurring in June, attracting millions of fans worldwide.

As of November 20, 2024, the leading teams include:

• Eastern Conference: Boston Celtics with a record of 10 wins – 2 losses.
• Western Conference: Golden State Warriors with a record of 9 wins – 3 losses.

Baseball

Baseball is one of the most iconic and beloved sports in the United States, often referred to as America’s “national pastime.”

The MLB (Major League Baseball) is the top professional baseball league in the US, consisting of 30 teams divided into 2 leagues: American League (AL) and National League (NL). The 2024 MLB season began on March 28 and ended on September 30, 2024.

The World Series is the championship series of the MLB, held between the champions of the AL and NL. In 2024, the Los Angeles Dodgers faced off against the New York Yankees and won 4-1, marking the Dodgers’ 8th World Series championship.

The 2024 season witnessed the emergence of many outstanding players:

• Freddie Freeman (Los Angeles Dodgers): Named MVP of the 2024 World Series.
• Shohei Ohtani (Los Angeles Dodgers): Continues to showcase exceptional skills both as a pitcher and a batter.

Important Events:

• All-Star Game: An exhibition match between AL and NL All-Stars held every July. In 2024, the event took place at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, with the AL winning 5-3.
• Home Run Derby: A competition to hit the most home runs, capturing the attention of fans. In 2024, Teoscar Hernández of the Los Angeles Dodgers won this event.

Soccer

Soccer in the United States has experienced significant growth in recent years, becoming one of the most beloved sports and gaining widespread interest from fans.

MLS (Major League Soccer) is the top professional soccer league in the US, established in 1993 and commencing its first season in 1996. As of 2024, MLS has 29 teams divided into 2 conferences: Eastern Conference and Western Conference.

The 2024 MLS season began on February 21 and concluded on October 19. In this season, Inter Miami CF won the Supporters’ Shield, awarded to the team with the best regular-season record.

The 2024 season saw the rise of many outstanding players:

• Lionel Messi (Inter Miami CF): Joined MLS in 2023 and continued to perform impressively, contributing significantly to Inter Miami CF’s success.
• Christian Benteke (D.C. United): Won the MLS Golden Boot in 2024 with 23 goals.