Dad Writes Touching Letter to Son Before World Cup Debut

When former USA soccer coach Gregg Berhalter lost his position leading the national team, he found an unexpected way to stay connected to the World Cup stage: through his son.

Gregg's son Sebastian, a 25-year-old midfielder, made Team USA's roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. On Tuesday, the former coach shared a moving letter to his son that captured what it means to compete on soccer's biggest stage.

"The World Cup is one of the rare moments when the entire world stops and watches," Gregg wrote. "It's a beautiful stage, but it's also a privilege, one that most people will never know."

The letter reminded Sebastian to soak in every moment, from hearing the national anthem to feeling the pressure of representing something bigger than himself. But the most powerful part wasn't about soccer at all.

"I am proud of you because of who you are, not because of what you accomplish," Gregg wrote. "You've stayed humble through all of it. You've stayed grounded. You've stayed kind."

Gregg coached Team USA from 2018 to 2022 and again in 2023 to 2024 before being let go after the team failed to advance past group play in the 2024 Copa América. Mauricio Pochettino now leads the squad, but Gregg moved on to coach the Chicago Fire in MLS.

Sebastian spent five seasons with the Vancouver Whitecaps and was part of Columbus Crew's MLS Cup Championship team in 2020. This season, he's scored six goals and added four assists as the Whitecaps lead the Western Conference at 10-2-2.

Sunny's Take

This story reminds us that our greatest accomplishments aren't always the trophies we win. Gregg Berhalter could have been bitter about losing his coaching position, but instead he chose to celebrate his son's moment with grace and unconditional love.

The letter shows that success looks different for everyone. For Sebastian, it's stepping onto soccer's grandest stage. For Gregg, it's watching his son grow into a kind, grounded young man who earned his spot through hard work.

Team USA faces Paraguay on Friday night at Los Angeles Stadium, where Sebastian will take the field knowing his dad's pride isn't riding on the scoreboard.