On Friday night in Seattle, Alex Freeman scored his first World Cup goal. The 21-year-old defender's strike helped the USA to a 2-0 win against Australia, sealing their place in the knockout stages. It was a moment that echoed across nearly 30 years—because in the same city, his father Antonio Freeman once lit up the NFL field.
Back in September 1996, Antonio Freeman's performance lit up the American football stage as his two touchdowns helped the Green Bay Packers to an impressive win at the Seattle Seahawks. Months later he became a Super Bowl winner—the highest accolade an NFL player can achieve.
“Alex Freeman's first World Cup goal seals USA's place in the last 32.”
Now his son Alex is forging his own path in football. After the match, Alex said: 'It's a full circle family moment. It shows how great the family tree is. It shows he can be great but I can be great in my own way and how amazing it is to have a dad that is successful and can mentor me to be ready for moments like these.'
But it wasn't easy. Alex initially kept his love of football secret, unsure how his father would react. He was encouraged by his mother and stepfather, who also acted as his first coach. 'It just shows how quick stuff can change and to not doubt yourself,' Alex added. 'Now I'm here, it shows you can never give up. Keep pushing and you never know what chance you're going to get and how you can go and make stuff happen.'
Just four years ago, for the last World Cup in Qatar in 2022, Freeman was playing in the reserves of Orlando City. Now he is scoring at a home World Cup, with his father beaming with pride at matches. USA's qualification for the last 32 is a testament to the faith shown in him. As Alex put it: 'You don't know when this chance will come again.'