Megan Rapinoe’s days on the field are over! The famous athlete bid her final farewell to the US Women’s National Soccer Team (USWNT) in an emotional message.
When the world’s greatest sportswomen are listed, it’s impossible not to mention the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Aside from dominating the women’s side of her sport, the 38-year-old is recognized as an advocate for equal pay and LGBTQ+ rights.
After years of helping his team achieve numerous victories, the California native has hung up his midfield boots to embrace retirement. Following her heartbreaking exit at this year’s Women’s World Cup, the veteran footballer reflects on her healthy career.
Megan Rapinoe Claims She’s ‘Very Proud’ Of Time With USWNT After Finals
On Sunday, August 6, the USA team was eliminated from the FIFA Women’s World Cup after a 5-4 penalty shootout loss to Sweden. In his first post since failing to score in the final shootout, the media personality announced his departure from the US team.
Taking to her Instagram page, Rapinoe shared an image of herself and her teammates gathered on the field with their coach and other crew members. The picture complimented the athlete’s long caption, in which he spoke about his love for soccer and the USWNT.
“The game is so beautiful, even in its cruelest moments,” wrote the 38-year-old, seemingly referring to the tragic moment that marked the end of his World Cup quest. Although he lost the competition, the heartbreaking event did not dim the midfielder’s achievements.
Praising his team, the two-time World Cup winner declared: “This group is very special, and I am very proud of each and every one of us. The team is in special hands while I’m gone, just as it always has been and always will be. Because that’s what this team is all about.”
According to the Olympic gold medalist, she and the members of the USWNT always do their best every game, not only for their success but for their fans. “Fight with everything we have, for everything we deserve, for everyone we can,” Rapinoe claimed.
Reflecting on her impressive record, the FIFA Women’s Player of the Year honoree expressed her gratitude to the US team. Showing his patriotic fervor, the California native said:
“It has been my honor to play for our country, with so many incredible women, for so many years. Thank you, a million times over.”
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Rapinoe’s touching farewell message drew positive responses from fans and celebrity friends. The list included actress Sophia Bush — who is about to be divorced — who dropped a sweet comment: “Thank you for all you do for both the beautiful game and our beautiful but imperfect country.”
The “One Tree Hill” star praised the FIFA Golden Boot recipient for his achievements on and off the pitch, praising the footballer for “inspiring millions” with his work. The performer’s conclusion reads: “Some of us are lucky enough to call you an inspiration first, and then a friend. Proud of you, endlessly.”
Sharing the same sentiment, the official USWNT account wrote, “Legend forever” along with a gold crown emoji. Additionally, several members of the US team supported the post, with Naomi Girma writing: You’re amazing,” while Sophia Smith posted a sad face and red heart emoji.
Feminine Ballon d’Or Recipients Awarded By President Joe Biden & Vice President Kamala Harris
Before her farewell to the USWNT, Rapinoe received sweet tributes from US leaders, President Joe Biden and his vice president Kamala Harris. The lawmaker’s message comes after the famous athlete announced his retirement with a passionate social media post in July.
“It is with deep peace and gratitude that I have decided this will be my last season playing this beautiful game,” the 38-year-old revealed on X, previously on Twitter.
“I could never have imagined how soccer would shape & change my life forever, but by the look on this little girl’s face, she knew all along,” the media personality concluded, referring to the throwback to her younger self attached to the tweet .
Following her message, the first female vice president in US history responded to the post with praise. The 58-year-old shared a photo of the pair posing together alongside the comment:
“A champion on and off the field. You have changed the game of football, been an example to millions, and fought tirelessly for equality. Congratulations on an outstanding career – good luck in the World Cup!”
Biden echoed similar sentiments, sharing a quote taken from Rapinoe’s Presidential Medal of Freedom ceremony. The lawmaker highlighted the 38-year-old’s achievements as an athlete and advocate, while expressing his excitement for his future.
“Congratulations on an amazing career. Can’t wait to see how you continue to help people believe in themselves and the possibilities of our country,” wrote the 46th US president.
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Source: thtrangdai.edu.vn/en/
