Describing a shortcut to success may seem like an exaggerated claim. Nevertheless, the MLS has experienced significant growth in recent months since La Pulga’s transfer to Inter Miami last summer. The arrival of the Argentine has elevated soccer to unprecedented levels across the nation. However, La Pulga is not the sole beneficiary of the sports landscape in America. Taylor Swift has become the talk of the town after being spotted in the Kelce box suite at Arrowhead Stadium in September.
Swift’s relationship with an NFL star has attracted considerable attention to the sport, even drawing in casual fans who want to see the person she is dating. While the NFL has always had a strong fan base, the same cannot be said for the MLS, which has received a lifeline with Lionel Messi’s arrival. While the NFL has always had a solid foundation, it remains to be seen if the MLS can maintain its prominence in the post-Lionel Messi era.
A recent survey conducted by Seton Hall University reveals that one out of every five American fans intends to tune in to the NFL Super Bowl LVIII to witness Taylor Swift’s performance during the event. The NFL has also experienced a surge in female viewership across all age groups. Teenagers, in particular, have witnessed a remarkable 51% increase in viewership in recent months.
Daniel Ladik, the head of methodologies for the Seton Hall University survey, commented on Taylor’s influence on the NFL. Ladik stated, “The NFL would still be immensely popular without Taylor Swift. However, she has managed to take it to another level. It is unprecedented for an individual to have such a profound impact on something they are not directly involved in.”
Regardless of opinions, the Taylor Swift effect is undeniably real. Swift’s presence in the NFL scene has also generated significant buzz in terms of sponsorship, with experts suggesting a 20% growth in sponsorship revenue for the league. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi is not far behind, as his arrival in the United States has breathed new life into the MLS.
Ladik, the head of methodologies for the survey, compared Lionel Messi’s impact on the MLS to Taylor Swift’s influence on the NFL. He also commented on the MLS’s dependence on Messi in his survey, stating, “There is one crucial difference between the two. Without Messi, MLS would be insignificant in the global sports narrative.”
Ladik’s words carry weight, as La Pulga’s arrival has propelled the MLS to new heights. The Argentine star has contributed to record viewership, sponsorships, and revenue for the league in recent months. However, Inter Miami has been the focal point of this boost, leaving other clubs to catch up.
Do you agree with Daniel Ladik’s opinion? What steps do you believe the MLS should take to ensure its sustainability following Lionel Messi? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
According to the Source essentiallysports.com