VIDEO EXCLUSIVE: U.S Soccer Star John Tolkin Sets Sights On Olympic Gold

As the Paris Olympics approach, U.S. men’s soccer team defender John Tolkin is laser-focused on bringing home the gold.

Tolkin, 21, a rising star for the New York Red Bulls in Major League Soccer, expressed confidence in the team’s medal prospects during a recent interview. “We feel as a group that’s definitely a possibility,” Tolkin said. “Everyone’s working towards that common goal of achieving that.”

The young defender highlighted the team’s intense preparation, including a recent friendly against France that resulted in a positive outcome for the U.S. squad. “We were just in France to play France and got a good result there and tested ourselves against some of the best opponents we’ll play,” he noted.

Tolkin, known for his versatility on the field and ability to play as both a left-back and midfielder, emphasized the importance of mental and physical preparation leading up to the Olympics. “I’m a big believer in you train really hard in the week and the game is the easy part,” he explained.

The New Jersey native, who joined the Red Bulls academy at age 13, stressed the significance of self-care in his pre-game routine. “It’s getting in the ice bath when you need to, although it sucks. Staying late for treatment, whatever you need to get your body physically ready,” Tolkin said. He also credited meditation as a critical component of his mental preparation.

Tolkin’s Olympic aspirations come at a time of growing excitement for soccer in the United States. The sport has seen a surge in popularity, with increased attendance at MLS games and improved performances by both the men’s and women’s national teams on the international stage.

Looking beyond the Olympics, Tolkin has his eye on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which the United States, Canada and Mexico will co-host. “It doesn’t get better than that,” he said of the prospect of playing in a home World Cup. “I think that’s in the back of everybody’s mind to put good performances in the Olympics.”

Since making his professional debut for the Red Bulls in 2020, Tolkin has quickly established himself as one of American soccer’s most promising young talents. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with several European clubs reportedly showing interest in the defender.