In a surprising move, Major League Soccer (MLS) announced that it will not be sending its first teams to compete in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup in 2024. Instead, teams from MLS Next Pro, the league’s developing second division, will have the opportunity to participate in the historic tournament. MLS Commissioner Don Garber’s previous criticism of the tournament’s current state played a significant role in this decision. With fixture congestion concerns and the desire to elevate the competition, MLS aims to reshape its relationship with the U.S. Open Cup.
During his state of the league address before the MLS Cup, Commissioner Garber emphasized the importance of embracing the U.S. Open Cup. He urged all stakeholders, including the federation and various leagues, to provide the tournament with the necessary support and recognition. Garber highlighted the need to create a comprehensive plan if the tournament’s significance is not adequately acknowledged. MLS’s recent decision is a reflection of these sentiments, as the league seeks to establish a new direction for the U.S. Open Cup.
Upon receiving the news, U.S. Soccer expressed its intention to review MLS’s decision. The federation and its members remain committed to the historical value of the U.S. Open Cup and aim to engage with all stakeholders to ensure the tournament’s continued success. The outcome of these discussions will influence MLS’s future involvement in the competition. Uncertainty looms over the involvement of MLS teams beyond the 2024 season, making it a critical juncture for the U.S. Open Cup’s evolution.
MLS’s decision to redirect its focus towards MLS Next Pro aligns with feedback received from clubs regarding fixture congestion. The introduction of the Leagues Cup, an expanded competition involving Liga MX, last year further contributed to this concern. Despite its long-standing history, there is a growing sentiment that the prestige of the U.S. Open Cup has waned. MLS acknowledges the need for evolution and elevation of the tournament in collaboration with U.S. Soccer and the federation’s sporting and competition group.
By allowing MLS Next Pro teams to participate in the U.S. Open Cup, MLS aims to provide an opportunity for developing players and teams to test themselves against the best in the country. The single-elimination nature of the tournament adds an element of excitement and challenge for these up-and-coming talents. The decision to involve MLS Next Pro teams also aligns with MLS’s efforts to cultivate a stronger talent pool for the future.
As the winner of the U.S. Open Cup traditionally earns a spot in the Concacaf Champions League, MLS’s decision raises questions about the tournament’s future implications. It remains unclear how the allocation of places in the Champions League will change following this shift in MLS’s involvement. Previously, some MLS teams had already opted to field weaker lineups in the U.S. Open Cup, prioritizing other competitions. With MLS Next Pro teams now in the mix, the dynamics of the tournament and its impact on international competition will likely evolve.
The U.S. Open Cup, established in 1914, has been a vital platform for competition between the country’s top division and the wider American soccer ecosystem. Notably, it provided a rare opportunity for lower division teams and players, such as those from the United Soccer League (USL), to compete against MLS counterparts. Although the Rochester Rhinos in 1999 was the last non-MLS team to win the U.S. Open Cup, success in the tournament has historically held immense value.
The USL, which fielded 36 professional teams in 2023, expressed surprise at MLS’s announcement. USL President Paul McDonough conveyed the organization’s intent to engage with U.S. Soccer and seek input from its owners before offering further public comment on MLS’s position. The USL’s perspective and input will likely play a crucial role in shaping future discussions regarding the U.S. Open Cup.
MLS’s decision to send MLS Next Pro teams to the U.S. Open Cup in 2024 indicates a shift in the league’s priorities. The evolving relationship between MLS and the U.S. Open Cup requires careful consideration to enhance the tournament’s standing. With key stakeholders reviewing the decision and MLS committed to working with the federation, the outcome will determine the future landscape of the U.S. Open Cup.
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