Elmo Clarifies His Team Loyalty After NBA Finals Backlash, Backs Team USA in Soccer

After drawing criticism for refusing to pick a side during the NBA Finals, Elmo says he wants fans to know exactly who he’s rooting for now: Team USA.

Elmo just wants to set the record straight… GO TEAM USA! pic.twitter.com/I30AujiDN3

— Elmo (@elmo) June 19, 2026

The beloved “Sesame Street” character sparked a social media uproar earlier this month when he wished both the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs well during the NBA Finals, writing that he hoped “both teams have fun.”

The post angered many Knicks fans, who argued that a character associated with New York City should support the hometown team.

Elmo later attempted to smooth things over with a pun-filled follow-up message, but the debate continued online. He said, “KNICKS that last message! Elmo didn’t mean to SPUR you on!”

Now, amid the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Elmo has made his sports allegiance clear Friday, saying he wants the United States to win in soccer.

The clarification comes after weeks of online jokes and criticism over Elmo’s neutral stance during the NBA Finals, proving that even a children’s television icon isn’t immune from passionate sports fans.

The U.S. men’s national team earned a 2-0 victory over Australia.

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