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July 8 (UPI) — U.S. women’s soccer star Megan Rapinoe announced her intention to retire at the conclusion of the 2023 National Women’s Soccer League season.
Rapinoe has had an illustrious career in soccer, earning an Olympic Gold Medal with the U.S. national women’s soccer team in 2012 and winning two World Cup championships. Since 2013, she has served as a winger for the Seattle Reign FC in the NWSL.
Rapinoe expressed gratitude towards her teammates and fiancée, former WNBA player Sue Bird.
“I am grateful to my family for their unwavering support throughout the years,” she stated in a released statement from U.S. Soccer. “I would like to extend my thanks to all of my teammates and coaches, from my early days in Redding, California, to my college years at the University of Portland. Of course, a special thank you to U.S. Soccer, the Seattle Reign, and especially Sue, for everything.
“Throughout my career, I have cherished the friendships and support I have received within this sport. I am incredibly excited for one last journey with the National Team and the Reign.”
Rapinoe has made 199 international appearances and achieved a win rate of approximately 86%. In the upcoming year, she will participate in her fourth Women’s World Cup, which will be held in Australia and New Zealand.
“I feel immensely grateful for the opportunities I’ve had, the successes we’ve achieved, and the positive impact our generation of players has made on the game,” she expressed.
“To have the chance to participate in one final World Cup and one last NWSL season on my own terms is an incredibly special experience.”
Rapinoe publicly revealed her sexual orientation in 2012 and has actively advocated for LGBTQ+ rights. In July 2022, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Joe Biden.
In 2016, she became the first prominent white athlete to kneel during the U.S. National Anthem to support NFL player Colin Kaepernick’s stance against racism.
“Megan Rapinoe is a crucial figure in the history of women’s soccer and possesses a distinct personality,” commented U.S. Women’s National Team head coach Vlatko Andonovski.
“It has been a pleasure coaching her in the NWSL and for the National Team, and I anticipate her playing a significant role in our World Cup campaign.”
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