1 of 6 | Veteran forward/midfielder Megan Rapinoe played her final international match for the United States Women’s National Team on Sunday at Soldier Field in Chicago. Photo by Alex Wroblewski/EPA-EFE
Sept. 25 (UPI) — U.S. soccer icon Megan Rapinoe delivered an emotional farewell speech after her final international appearance, a 2-0 victory over South Africa. Speaking at Soldier Field in Chicago, Rapinoe shed tears as she reflected on the challenges and triumphs throughout her career. With 203 appearances for the team, Rapinoe is now the 11th most capped player in American history.
“I feel like I’ve been able to grow up in front of all of you,” expressed Rapinoe. “Our fans, both in the United States and around the world, have played a significant role in our journey. Representing this team and our country has been an extraordinary honor.”
Alex Morgan, another U.S. soccer legend, assisted in scoring the first goal of the match in the 46th minute, helping Trinity Rodman find the back of the net. Rapinoe contributed to the second goal in the 49th minute with a corner kick. Although the attempt was thwarted by South Africa’s Andile Dlamini, American winger Emily Sonnett was able to capitalize on the opportunity and head the ball into the left side of the net.
Rapinoe almost scored from a free kick in the 52nd minute, but the ball soared over the right side of the crossbar. She was substituted in the 54th minute, passing her captain’s armband to Lindsey Horan before embracing her teammates and leaving the field to a standing ovation from the crowd of over 25,000.
Later, Rapinoe addressed her retirement and career, emphasizing the team’s fight for equal pay and her role as an LGBTQ advocate. “This team has always taken pride in showing up as our full selves,” said Rapinoe. “We have fought hard on and off the field to create space for ourselves and for all who support us.”
Rapinoe, who made her debut for the national team in 2006, scored 63 goals during her career, ranking 10th in team history. She also recorded 73 assists, tying with Abby Wambach for the third-most in history, behind only Mia Hamm and Kristine Lilly. Rapinoe’s achievements include winning two World Cup titles, an Olympic gold medal, the 2019 Ballon d’Or Feminin, and the Golden Ball and Golden Boot awards at the 2019 World Cup.
Having announced her retirement from soccer after the completion of the 2023 season with the OL Reign of the National Women’s Soccer League, Rapinoe expressed her gratitude and assured fans that she will continue to support the team and the sport passionately. “I’m one of you guys now. I’ll be the biggest fan of this team,” she declared.
During a news conference in Chicago, Rapinoe also discussed her advocacy work and the impact the team has had off the field. “We’ve been a big part of pushing conversations about gay rights, racial justice, and trans rights,” she told reporters. “We understand the importance of being true to ourselves and how it translates to our performance. While our on-field achievements are significant, they pale in comparison to what we’ve accomplished off the field.”
Looking ahead, Rapinoe expressed excitement about spending time with her family, resting, and being involved in the growth of women’s sports after the NWSL season concludes.
The OL Reign’s next match is against the North Carolina Courage at Lumen Field in Seattle.
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