Megan Rapinoe concluded her illustrious international career in a familiar fashion – triumphantly and mischievously. The renowned soccer star and her USA teammates emerged victorious in a friendly match against South Africa, defeating them 2-0 at Soldier Field in Chicago. While Rapinoe will continue playing a few more games for her club team, OL Reign, this game marked her final appearance for the US national team, bringing an end to a nearly two-decade career.
Throughout her career, Rapinoe earned numerous accolades, including 203 caps, two World Cups, and an Olympic gold medal. After the US team’s early exit from the recent World Cup, they rallied behind the 38-year-old Rapinoe to celebrate her retirement. The crowd erupted with joy when, in the early minutes of the second half, Rapinoe’s corner kick led to a header goal by Emily Sonnett. It was a fitting ending for Rapinoe, renowned for her exceptional skill in set pieces. The opening goal of the match symbolized a passing of the torch to the next generation, as 21-year-old Trinity Rodman scored with an assist from Alex Morgan, Rapinoe’s longtime teammate with the US Women’s National Team (USWNT).
In a press conference before the game, Rapinoe expressed her peace about moving on, acknowledging the promising talent of players like Soph Smith, Naomi Girma, and Trinity Rodman. She confidently stated that the future of the team is in very good hands.
The game held extra significance for Rapinoe, as it took place in Chicago, the hometown of US Soccer’s headquarters. It was in this city where Rapinoe and her team fought extensively for equal pay, a battle that defined her career off the field. Rapinoe recognizes that their impact and fight for gender equality outweigh any on-field accomplishments they have achieved.
For the past three decades, women’s soccer has become an integral part of America’s sports landscape, gaining popularity with each World Cup and Olympic victory. However, it took remarkable individuals like Rapinoe to elevate the sport further. Each era had its iconic players, from Mia Hamm in the 90s to Abby Wambach in the early 2000s. Then came Rapinoe, who not only impressed fans with her soccer skills but also fearlessly brought her true self to the game. Prior to the 2012 Olympics, Rapinoe publicly came out as gay, receiving overwhelming support and becoming a role model for many.
Rapinoe’s impact extended beyond fighting for causes close to her identity as a queer woman. In 2016, she demonstrated her solidarity with NFL player Colin Kaepernick by becoming one of the first white athletes to kneel during the national anthem, protesting against police brutality in America. This powerful statement still resonates with Rapinoe’s fans, particularly with the Black community, who appreciate her allyship and the risk she took to stand up for justice.
Before the game at Soldier Field, the atmosphere resembled a festive party mixed with the excitement of a childhood celebration. Fans dressed in patriotic red, white, and blue kicked soccer balls around, accompanied by a soundtrack of popular music. People of all genders and ages proudly donned Rapinoe’s No.15 jersey, showcasing the diversity of support she has garnered.
When asked what they loved about Rapinoe, many children in attendance highlighted her bravery rather than her skill on the field. They admired her ability to express her feelings and thoughts openly, which is not always common among soccer players. Others cherished the attitude Rapinoe and her teammates displayed during the World Cup, particularly recalling iconic moments like Alex Morgan’s tea-sipping celebration in 2019.
In her final moments on the field, Rapinoe maintained that spirited nature. During the post-game ceremony, someone handed her a microphone, and with her trademark candor and a mischievous grin, she humorously warned them that they might regret it. However, apart from a few political adversaries, few will regret Rapinoe having her say. Her courageous and outspoken advocacy for equal pay, gay rights, and racial justice served as a beacon of inspiration that transcended the boundaries of sports. With her unwavering commitment, hard work, and vibrant hair colors, Rapinoe achieved what many let go of as they grow older – wholeheartedly pursuing their dreams.
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