American soccer star Megan Rapinoe, known both for her talent on the field and her activism off it, said goodbye to the United States team in an emotional friendly against South Africa in Chicago. Rapinoe, 38, received a standing ovation from the 25,000 fans at Soldier Field when she was substituted in the 54th minute.
The Californian forward leaves behind a legendary international career in which she has won two World Cups and an Olympic gold medal with “Team USA.” Throughout her more than 17 years on the national team, Rapinoe scored 63 goals in 203 international matches.
However, her influence transcends football. Rapinoe has stood out as one of the most important voices in sports in the fight for gender equality and in promoting social and racial causes in the United States.
Before retiring to the bench, Rapinoe received the love and hugs of all of her teammates in the center of the field. The American team, which recently faced the disappointment of being eliminated in the round of 16 at the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, said goodbye to one of the most iconic figures in its history with a 2-0 victory over South Africa. Trinity Rodman and Emily Sonnett scored the goals in this emotional match.
Megan Rapinoe has not only been a leading figure in women’s soccer, but she has also left a lasting mark as an advocate for social justice and equality in sport and in society as a whole. Her legacy extends far beyond the playing field.