Megan Rapinoe, is preparing to hang up her boots for the U.S. Women's National Soccer Team (USWNT). The forward and two-time world champion will take to the pitch for her final international match on September 24th, against South Africa at Chicago's historic Soldier Field.
Megan Rapinoe will play her final match for the US on September 24 against South Africa in Chicago, the @USWNT confirm. ⚽️ pic.twitter.com/scMNxlg2s1
— Attacking Third (@AttackingThird) August 29, 2023
Having solidified her legacy as one of the game's most influential figures, Rapinoe's journey from the debut in 2006 to her imminent farewell has been nothing short of extraordinary. The 2019 Ballon d'Or winner's impact on both U.S. men's and women's soccer is immeasurable.
As the USWNT looks back on their remarkable achievements, Rapinoe's pivotal role in clinching two World Cup titles, in 2015 and 2019, remains unforgettable. The forward's contributions extended beyond the pitch, helping the nation secure Olympic gold at the 2012 London Games. A true luminary, she is among the elite few who have achieved the rare distinction of 50+ career goals and 50+ career assists in USWNT history.
U.S. Soccer has officially announced that Megan Rapinoe's last #USWNT match will be held in Chicago at Solider Field on September 24, against South Africa. She will not feature in the October friendlies against Colombia.
➡️: https://t.co/EI92SUvxkg pic.twitter.com/cadDDRy5ZT— The Equalizer (@EqualizerSoccer) August 29, 2023
Rapinoe's journey, however, wasn't without its share of heartaches. Her decisive penalty miss in the shootout against Sweden during the recent 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup was a moment that etched itself painfully into her storied career. Reflecting on that event, Rapinoe expressed her disbelief, stating, "That's like a sick, sick joke. I've never hit it over, when I miss they are saved... I mean, honestly, I can't remember the last time I missed."
Megan Rapinoe, with her unwavering commitment, unmatched skill, and unapologetic spirit, will take her final bow at Soldier Field, marking the end of an era while paving the way for a new generation of soccer trailblazers.
