In Tennessee, it wasn’t the NBA’s Grizzlies, NFL’s Titans, or NHL’s Predators who won the state’s first pro title. Nashville Soccer Club did, with English striker Sam Surridge, nicknamed “Super Sam,” leading the way.
His decisive goal in the US Open Cup final earlier this month was just one of 29 he scored in all competitions this season. On Saturday, the 27-year-old aims to deliver more success in a city better known for country music than sports.
Battle for the Golden Boot
Surridge ranks third in Major League Soccer’s top scorers with 23 goals. He competes with Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi (26) and LAFC’s Denis Bouanga (24).
Messi will arrive in Nashville with stars like Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Rodrigo de Paul. Both teams fight for MLS Cup playoff positioning in the season finale.
“Midway through the season, I was leading, then Messi caught up,” Surridge said with a smile. “He had five doubles in five games. It’s impressive to face him. Denis Bouanga adds to the race. We’re all having strong seasons. It may come down to the last game. I stay focused on my tasks.”
Nashville Between Football, Hockey, and Soccer
With Memphis Grizzlies only three hours away, Nashville’s sports culture has centered on football and hockey. NFL team Tennessee Titans and NHL’s Predators draw large crowds, which Surridge enjoys watching.
“The intensity is huge,” he explained. “Those big players give everything and hit hard.”
But after winning the US Open Cup, Surridge sees Nashville growing as a “soccer city.” Founded nine years ago, the club joined MLS in 2020. Geodis Park seats over 30,000, making Miami’s visit one of the most sought-after games of the season.
“People here love sports in general,” Surridge said. “They watch NFL, NHL, and soccer. Interest is growing, especially with Messi. Soccer is a big event in the U.S., and fans want entertainment. We’re lucky to have such support, and Inter Miami games are a major highlight.”
Preparing for the World Cup
Surridge expects next summer’s World Cup in North America to boost soccer’s popularity further. He also worries about the heat. Nashville players often train at 8 a.m. before temperatures rise.
“The heat will challenge players,” he said. “During the Club World Cup, teams sometimes couldn’t train. Playing at 3 p.m. will be even tougher. Water breaks help little. You risk losing the ball and wasting energy in the heat.”
From Weymouth to Nashville
Surridge’s path differs sharply from 38-year-old Messi. While Messi won Champions League and Ballon d’Or trophies, Surridge played at Southern League side Weymouth as a 17-year-old.
He moved through Poole, Yeovil, Oldham, and Swansea before breaking through with Bournemouth in 2020/21. He then joined Stoke City and, in January 2022, Nottingham Forest. He scored seven goals to help Forest earn Premier League promotion, but started only one of 20 top-flight games the following season.
“All those clubs shaped me,” Surridge said. “They prepared me for playing in America. Loans were tough but invaluable.”
Taking on Messi
“Playing against Messi is incredible,” he said. “At the same time, I want to continue my journey. I’m not at my peak and I keep learning. In America, I’ve learned a lot about my game and what I want to improve.”
Nashville signed him when Forest brought in 14 new players. The club paid about £5 million and made him a key player.
“I wanted to play and face new challenges,” Surridge said. “Nashville gave me the number nine shirt and a chance to perform. I’ve repaid their faith and feel very comfortable.”
Peak Form in Nashville
Surridge lives in Nashville with his fiancée, young son, and dog. His family stability has boosted his performance. He has scored 29 goals in 36 games this season, nearly double last season’s best.
“Experience and age help,” he said. “I work hard, stay calm in front of goal, and know the club supports me. I know what I want and need.”
He avoids Nashville’s Broadway and honky-tonk bars. “Not my thing,” he laughed. He recommends the city for anyone joining MLS.
“I love Nashville. The city is perfect for my family. We enjoy traveling across the U.S., and living here makes it easy.”
