The American Soccer Federation said on Tuesday it had launched an investigation into Gregg Berhalter, whose retention as national team coach is under discussion for kicking his girlfriend, now his wife, in 1991.
US Soccer said it became aware of allegations against Berhalter on December 11, more than a week after the US team was eliminated by the Netherlands in Qatar. In a long message on Twitter, the person concerned complained about allegations by “an individual” who “wanted to bring about the end of my cooperation with US Soccer”.
The 49-year-old technician was pushing for an explanation saying he was 18, a freshman and their relationship was four months ago when the incident happened during a night out at a bar.
“Rosalind and I had a heated argument that continued outside,” he said. It got physical and I kicked his legs. It was a shameful moment that I still regret today. There is no excuse for my actions that night.”
Berhalter spoke of a “difficult step” he and Rosalind chose to go public to “share the truth,” adding, “This is a story that’s ours.”
“We appreciate that Gregg and Rosalind have come forward to speak openly about this incident,” the panel said, adding that it “condemns all forms of violence and takes these allegations very seriously.”
US Soccer said it was also investigating “possible inappropriate behavior towards several members of our team by people outside our association” which could lead to possible blackmail from Berhalter. “We take this type of behavior seriously,” the authority added.
The case, dating back more than 30 years, comes to light as US Soccer conducts a full technical review of the national team to decide whether or not to keep the technician as manager after a remarkable run in Qatar.
In 2026, the United States will host the next World Cup along with Mexico and Canada. Team USA’s next games will be on January 25th and 28th, with home friendlies against Serbia and then against Colombia.