LEÓN, Mexico — Landon Donovan, the most celebrated player in the history of American soccer, was driving home from the store this week in this industrial city in Central Mexico when he spotted a man on the side of the road selling pineapples.
The pineapples were two for 50 pesos — about $2.70. Donovan gave the vendor 100 pesos and told him to keep the change. As he drove away, Donovan saw the man cross himself and look to the sky.
It was a small moment, probably forgettable for most people, but it resonated for the 36-year-old Donovan.