Tim Ream, the 37-year-old defender for the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT), has shifted his perspective regarding the possibility of participating in another World Cup. Initially believing that his appearance in the 2022 World Cup would be his last, Ream’s recent performances have prompted him to reconsider. After playing every minute for the USMNT in Qatar at the age of 35, he is now seeing the prospect of a second World Cup in 2026 as attainable.
Ream’s journey has been noteworthy, especially considering he hadn’t played for the USMNT in over a year before making the World Cup squad. More recently, he captained the team in a Gold Cup semifinal match against Guatemala, contributing significantly to the team’s 2-1 victory. His experience has proven invaluable, especially as the team navigates the pressures of playing against Central American teams, which can often bring challenging atmospheres.
Teammate Chris Richards acknowledged Ream’s influence, emphasizing how much he has learned from the veteran defender during their time together. Ream’s guidance has been crucial for younger players who are unfamiliar with the intense dynamics of Concacaf matches.
Despite being no longer in the Premier League, Ream’s robust performances have left head coach Mauricio Pochettino confident in his role. The USMNT’s limited pool of center back options makes Ream’s contributions even more critical, as he continues to show that age does not diminish capability.
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, Ream is optimistic about the possibility of adding another World Cup to his resume. “Why does it have to be [my only World Cup]? I’m still playing. Why not put that goal out there of getting to another one?” he stated, indicating his determination to continue competing at the highest level.
This renewed ambition exemplifies Ream’s resilience and passion for the sport. Desiring another chance at the World Cup can inspire not just his teammates but also the broader soccer community, showing that age is not a barrier to achieving lofty goals. Ream’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of experience and leadership within sports, especially in pivotal tournaments that evoke national pride.