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WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND – JULY 27: Megan Rapinoe of USA looks on during the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 Group E match between USA and Netherlands at Wellington Regional Stadium on July 27, 2023 in Wellington, New Zealand. (Photo by Ulrik Pedersen/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)
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WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND – JULY 27: Megan Rapinoe of USA looks on during the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 Group E match between USA and Netherlands at Wellington Regional Stadium on July 27, 2023 in Wellington, New Zealand. (Photo by Ulrik Pedersen/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)
Megan Rapinoe has witnessed a remarkable soccer career. Over the years, fans have praised both, her game and her advocacy for social justice. The veteran has garnered widespread attention and admiration both on and off the pitch. Once again, a 40-year-old Canadian superstar hailed the USWNT star for inspiring an entire generation of athletes.
As Megan Rapinoe prepares for her farewell game with the US Women’s National Team, her impact on the world of soccer continues to resonate.
Olympic gold medalist hails Megan Rapinoe for being an inspiration
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On Sunday, Rapinoe played the National Women’s Soccer League fixture against the Portland Thorns. Sadly, the match didn’t end in the favor of her domestic side OL Reign as they lost 2-0 against the Oregon-based club. Following the match, Thorns’ star Christine Sinclair spoke about Rapinoe’s final NWSL match at Portland.
The 40-year-old Canadian hailed the American icon, highlighting her status. “I’ve spent my entire career competing against her, whether it’s for Canada or with Portland,” Sinclair said. “I have so much respect for her.”
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SEATTLE, WA – MAY 21: OL Reign forward Megan Rapinoe (15) during an NWSL match between the NJ/NY Gotham FC and the OL Reign on May 21, 2023 at Lumen Field in Seattle, WA. (Photo by Oliver McKenna/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Notably, both Sinclair and Rapinoe were teammates at the University of Portland. The two were later divided by the jersey of both club and country respectively. Nevertheless, coming back, these were some heartwarming words from the Thorns star. Certainly, Rapinoe would be pleased to hear such acclamation from her rival.
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The 2021 Olympic gold medalist heaped more praise on Rapinoe. We’re definitely two different types of people, but what she’s done for the game, she’s helped inspire an entire generation of young soccer fans. ... I’m going to miss playing against her. This rivalry is going to miss having her, and our fans are going to miss booing her,” she concluded.
Meanwhile, the OL Reign forward is now bracing herself for her farewell game for the USWNT.
Rapinoe braces herself for the last dance
Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end, including Rapinoe’s soccer journey.
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After a disappointing World Cup, the California-native announced her retirement from international soccer. However, she isn’t departing with only bad memories. Apparently, Rapinoe is in the USWNT roster for the international friendlies scheduled against South Africa later this month.
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Megan Rapinoe of USA and OL Reign during the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 Round of 16 match between Winner Group G and Runner Up Group E at Melbourne Rectangular Stadium on August 6, 2023 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
These matches carry significance for the national team since both Rapinoe and her teammate Julie Ertz have announced their retirements following these fixtures.
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This will undoubtedly be a momentous occasion for the fans as they bid farewell to their beloved stars.
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