Twenty-five years ago, Tab Ramos spent his holiday season mulling over a potentially life-altering decision.
At the end of a grueling 38-game season, Tab Ramos and Real Betis had achieved automatic promotion to La Liga by a two-point margin. This was Ramos’ fifth season in Spain and it included a semifinal run in the Copa del Rey.
That summer, Ramos had led the United States Men’s National Team to the Round of 16 in the World Cup on home soil. From his midfield position, he played a crucial role on the team as it captured the attention and affection of the nation with its hard-working, never-say-die underdog mentality.