I've never heard anyone say this.

People play and like what they grow up with. Europeans like soccer, Canadians hockey and Americans are into football and baseball. What's the big deal? Wouldn't it be rather boring if everyone plays the same sports?

I grew up in Europe, ice hockey and soccer are the only sports I watch and enjoy. It is what I grew up with. Most Americans like to watch football and baseball - it reminds them of going to games when they were little, playing with friends out on the fields, etc. Why start getting into another sport when you have plenty already that keeps you busy?

On a side note, most kids nowadays play soccer instead of football. Less likely to get seriously injured when playing soccer than football. Besides, girls can play soccer, but hardly football. While I don't think that soccer will ever replace football or baseball, it certainly will become a lot more popular over once these kids grow up.