After an injury stole his last World Cup moment, USMNT’s Miles Robinson tells CNN he is ‘honored’ for a second chance

USMNT defender Miles Robinson will finally compete in the World Cup after being forced to withdraw from Qatar 2022 due to a ruptured Achilles tendon. The 29-year-old, now a key player for FC Cincinnati, secured a roster spot for the 2026 tournament, which will be hosted across the US, Canada, and Mexico. Robinson, who has earned 40 caps and scored three goals for the national team since 2019, called the opportunity 'honored,' crediting resilience after his injury delayed his debut. The 2026 World Cup will mark Robinson’s first appearance in the tournament, as well as the first for head coach Mauricio Pochettino, appointed by US Soccer in 2024. Pochettino personally notified Robinson of his selection, describing the moment as 'surreal.' Robinson highlighted the team’s unity and potential, stating, 'We’ve got great players, a great staff, so this summer we’re going to prove a lot of things.' Robinson’s standout moment came in the 2021 CONCACAF Gold Cup final, where he scored the decisive 117th-minute header against Mexico. His leadership and experience as a center back will be crucial for a US team aiming to advance past the group stage. Recent performances, including a 3-2 win over Senegal in May and a competitive 2-1 loss to Germany, have boosted confidence ahead of the tournament. Playing on home soil adds emotional significance for Robinson, who described the support of friends, family, and fans as motivating. The 2026 World Cup will feature 48 teams, the largest edition in history, making it a platform for the US to showcase its growing soccer culture. Robinson emphasized the team’s role in inspiring younger generations, saying, 'We’re representing much more than just ourselves—we’re representing the country and the kids that look up to us.'