When Tyler Adams took the field on Monday afternoon for the U.S. at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, he made history twice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
First, he became the youngest captain at this World Cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Second, and more significantly, he became the first Black player to captain the U.S. men’s team throughout any World Cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For a sport that oftentimes struggles with keeping Black talent, particularly in the U.S., and is hampered by racism globally<\/a>, Adams’ title speaks volumes about the team and the man himself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The team voted the 23-year-old as captain this fall, which wasn’t a total surprise. He had been named team captain nine times previously, but that was on a game-by-game basis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This elevation is permanent for as long as the team plays in the World Cup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tyler Adams, a defensive midfielder, is a natural leader. The Wappinger Falls, NY native is fearless and puts his money where his mouth is. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In other words, he comes to play each and every time and expects the same from his teammates.<\/p>