With the Paris Olympics just around the corner, the spotlight is on American soccer, and John Tolkin is one of the young players vying for a spot on the US men’s national team.
At just 21 years old, Tolkin has already made four appearances for the senior team and is hoping to be one of the 18 players selected for the Olympic squad. However, with only seven substitutes allowed, the competition for places is fierce.
Tolkin is well aware of the importance of making the most of this opportunity, with the World Cup on the horizon in 2026. “I’m gonna do everything I can to be a part of it,” he said.
With only 18 spots available on the US Olympic roster, Tolkin’s has a small window for error
Tolkin has made four appearances for the US senior national team heading into Paris
Despite the stiff competition, Tolkin is confident in his abilities and has a unique pre-game ritual that gives him an extra boost – wearing cologne. “It’s huge for me,” he said. “My girlfriend always seems to be smelling things, so I need to be smelling good. It’s really important to me.”
Tolkin’s favorite colognes are Baccarat red and Louis Vuitton, and he wears them specifically on game days. “It’s just clean!” he exclaimed.
The US men’s soccer team kicks off their Olympic campaign against France on July 24, followed by games against New Zealand and Guinea. A strong performance could be the key to Tolkin’s success, both in the short and long term.
Tolkin was called in for the American’s last under-23 in March against France and Guinea
Winning a medal at the Olympics would be a dream come true for Tolkin, but he’s also aware of the bigger picture. “That’s something nobody can take away from you, if you win a medal. And I think that’s on everybody’s mind,” he said.
Tolkin recently signed a new contract with the New York Red Bulls, but he’s also open to a move to Europe in the future. A star-making performance at the Olympics could be the catalyst for a transfer, and Tolkin is aware of the opportunities that lie ahead.
Tolkin recently resigned with the Red Bulls, but has been linked with a move to Europe
As Tolkin prepares for the biggest stage of his career, he’s aware of the importance of seizing the moment. “I think that’s a great opportunity for players to really showcase themselves and it’s definitely something in my mind,” he said.
With the World Cup on the horizon, Tolkin knows that a strong performance at the Olympics could be the key to unlocking his full potential. “I wish I could describe it. I really can’t, like when the national anthem comes on, I can’t find the words to how it feels,” he said.