- Survey: Americans felt pride watching World Cup visitors.
- 70 percent want the U.S. to host more major global events.
- Survey flags concerns over stricter entry rules.
"The World Cup reintroduced America to the world," said Geoff Freeman, USTA president and CEO. "Our best ambassadors aren't politicians or headlines, they're the Americans visitors met, the communities they explored and the people who made them feel welcome. That's a win for every American."
The sentiment goes beyond the tournament itself. About 81 percent of Americans said it is important for international travelers to have a positive experience while visiting the U.S. Among those surveyed, 61 percent said it reflects positively on America's reputation, while 50 percent said it strengthens ties with other countries.
Another 43 percent said visitors support American businesses and workers through their spending. Around 70 percent also said the U.S. should pursue more major international events such as the World Cup, Olympics and World Fair.
That support also reflected how Americans view international travel. They were three times more likely to say visitors understand U.S. culture better by visiting than through media. Half said the best way to know the country is to experience it firsthand.
The survey also flagged concern about policies that could slow the progress made during the World Cup. A larger share of respondents believed stricter entry rules for international visitors would hurt local businesses and communities rather than help them. The proposals included a $250 entry fee and expanded social media screening.
Freeman said the World Cup demonstrated the value of welcoming visitors and urged the U.S. to avoid creating barriers to travel.
Separately, Brand USA launched a campaign encouraging World Cup visitors to return and explore more of the U.S.
