Football Surpasses Baseball as America’s National Pastime, Survey Says
America’s pastime is no longer the sport played on a diamond, but rather a gridiron.
A recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center reveals that the majority of Americans now consider football to be America’s sport rather than baseball, by a wide margin. Out of the 12,000 adults surveyed, 53% believed that football holds the title of America’s sport, while baseball came in second at 27%.
The survey, which included a range of questions about sports fandom in the United States, asked participants, If you had to choose one sport as being ‘America’s sport,’ even if you don’t personally follow it, which sport would it be? The majority of respondents clearly favored football.
While football emerged as the national sport, the survey also shed light on the level of interest in pro or college sports among American adults. A significant 62% admitted to not closely following any sports or even following them at all. Similarly, 63% of adults acknowledged that they only engage in sports-related discussions just a few times a month or less often.
Despite the NFL’s immense popularity, the survey revealed that only a mere 7% of adults considered themselves superfans of sports, defined as individuals who frequently discuss sports with others and closely follow the most popular leagues.
The survey’s findings were consistent across various demographics, including gender, age, and ethnicity. Football dominated as the national sport within all major categories, resonating with both men and women, older and younger adults, and individuals of different racial backgrounds such as White, Black, Hispanic, and Asian Americans.
The Pew Research Center also allowed respondents to jot down alternative sports under the something else category. Golf, boxing, rodeo, and numerous others were mentioned by participants as potential contenders for America’s national sport.
As America’s sports landscape continues to evolve, one thing remains clear: football has cemented itself as the country’s favorite pastime. The rapid growth of the sport’s popularity has surpassed the traditional dominance of baseball, capturing the hearts of millions of Americans from all walks of life. Although interest in pro and college sports varies among individuals, the passion surrounding football remains unparalleled.
In a world that may seem divided by countless differences, the love for football unites people nationwide, serving as a common language that bridges gaps and fosters a sense of community. Whether it be the adrenaline-pumping moments on the gridiron or the camaraderie and traditions shared by fans, football has solidified its place as the sport that truly embodies America’s spirit.
In the ever-changing landscape of American sports, football has risen to the top as the nation’s true pastime. With its unparalleled popularity and ability to transcend boundaries, it is no wonder that the sport has captured the hearts of individuals across the country. As America continues to evolve, football hails as the ultimate unifying force, bringing together people from all walks of life under the banner of the gridiron.
