Former U.S. Men’s National Team forward Landon Donovan has issued a response after being ripped for taking part in an ad campaign urging Americans to root for Mexico at the World Cup.
Donovan, the all-time leading scorer for the USMNT, was criticized by former team members such as Cobi Jones and Carlos Bocanegra for this ad, which was sponsored by Wells Fargo.
The tournament is here! USA fans, our team may not be in Russia, but our neighbors to the south are. So join me and their proud #sponsor @WellsFargo to cheer on our other team, Mexico @miseleccionmxEN. ¡Vamos México! pic.twitter.com/YIifLGCT0D
— Landon Donovan (@landondonovan) June 16, 2018
Many felt Donovan’s support of Mexico, one of the biggest rivals of the United States, was misplaced, especially since the U.S. failed to qualify for this World Cup and Mexico did.
In his response, Donovan referenced his upbringing and the positive influence Mexican teammates he’s had throughout the years have had on him.
— Landon Donovan (@landondonovan) June 17, 2018
He also had some specific words for Bocanegra after his ex-teammate questioned his motivations.
“You grew up in SoCal and owe much of your soccer skill to playing with Mexicans,” Donovan wrote on Twitter. “Your father is of Mexican descent Look around our country, are you happy with how we are treating Mexicans? Open your mind, stand for something & remember where you came from.”
Mexico won their opening match of the World Cup, knocking off defending champ Germany 1-0.
Whether you’re looking to get into shape, or just get out of a funk, The Charge has got you covered. Sign up for our new wellness newsletter today.