Former USMNT star Taylor Twellman ignited a cross-sport controversy during the 2026 FIFA World Cup by calling out Patrick Mahomes for what he described as an “absolute disgrace” in the NFL, drawing a direct comparison to soccer’s simulation problem. The debate started after ESPN’s Albert Breer criticised a foul call during Argentina vs. Austria. Twellman acknowledged soccer’s flopping issue but demanded equal scrutiny for Mahomes and NBA star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, calling out commentators who target soccer while ignoring the same behaviour in other American sports leagues.
