I’m 18 and played at the World Cup. I feel gratitude for the experience.

Lucas Herrington, an 18-year-old Australian footballer playing for the Colorado Rapids in MLS, recounts his experience as one of the youngest players at the 2026 World Cup. He started Australia's final group match against Paraguay and played in the knockout round loss to Egypt, where he took a penalty in the shootout but missed. Herrington describes the emotional weight of singing the national anthem, the pressure of the tournament, and his gratitude for being trusted with a penalty kick. He emphasizes the importance of family and friends in keeping him grounded, and reflects on the mental side of competing at the highest level. The article is part of The Athletic's 'Peak' series on the mental aspects of sports.