Sebastian Berhalter opens up about his relationship with his father Gregg ahead of the 2026 World Cup
By OnzeActu · · 2 min read
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, Sebastian Berhalter spoke about the place of his father, Gregg Berhalter, in his life and his career, saluting their special relationship. The American midfielder says he is aware of the particular challenges linked to his status as the son of a former coach, but prefers to transform doubts into motivation as he prepares to defend the colors of the United States against Paraguay in the first match of the tournament.
Sebastian Berhalter is preparing to experience a highlight of his career at the 2026 World Cup with the United States selection. If he had followed his father Gregg Berhalter during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, this time, it is as a player that he will participate in the global event, now under the leadership of Mauricio Pochettino, new coach of the United States.
Before the tournament kicked off against Paraguay on June 12, Sebastian spoke about his father's unwavering support. “He’s my father, but I also think he’s my best friend,” he confided on the show “First Things First”. The young player describes a natural relationship where the dialogue goes well beyond the pitch. “To have someone like him by my side is special. Not many people have this chance, so I consider myself truly privileged.”
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Aware that the Berhalter surname raises expectations and sometimes suspicions of favoritism, Sebastian admits that this situation forced him to do more: "If an opportunity were to arise, I knew I would have to work twice as hard." He explains that from his years in the training center, some believed that he was only there thanks to his father. Far from avoiding criticism, he made it a driving force for progress.
Although he admits that playing under his father in the national team would have been a unique moment, the main challenge for Sebastian remains to prove his worth and write his own story. “It’s important that we can show our value, to give the supporters something to believe in, something to fight for,” he sums up.
The 2026 World Cup will take place from June 11 to July 19 between the United States, Mexico and Canada, with a final scheduled at New York New Jersey Stadium. The United States will begin its campaign against Paraguay on June 12, a crucial meeting for Sebastian Berhalter and his generation.