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U.S. Open Cup

The U.S. Open Cup, officially known as the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, is an annual knockout cup competition in American soccer. It is open to all professional and amateur teams affiliated with U.S. Soccer, which includes Major League Soccer (MLS) teams, lower division clubs from the United Soccer League (USL) and National Premier Soccer League (NPSL), and amateur teams. Established in 1914, the tournament is one of the oldest ongoing soccer competitions in the United States. Teams compete in a single-elimination format, and the competition typically culminates in a final match where the champion is awarded the U.S. Open Cup trophy. The winner also earns a spot in the next season’s CONCACAF Champions League, providing an opportunity for international competition. The U.S. Open Cup is known for its ability to produce upsets, with lower-division teams often defeating higher-ranked rivals, showcasing the depth and competitive spirit of American soccer.