“Have Looked Up To Her”- Megan Rapinoe Gets Utmost Praise From Rival Boss as South Africa Eyes to Spoil Farewell

An epitome of strength and finesse, America will miss its most iconic soccer star in the years to come. The end of a brilliant spell of World Cups, excluding the last one, and trophies, a sense of great accomplishment is what Megan Rapinoe will feel during the next few days. The American star has not influenced the current generation in sport, but even the older generations have likely learned from her. A recent testament from a rival’s boss proves it.

Before the recent disappointment at the 2023 World Cup for the USWNT, the 38-year-old felt it was high time to call quits and help the team focus on the trophy. The penalty miss in the round of 16 would not have been an ideal spinoff, but the forward has already achieved glory for her country many a time.

A rival coach wishes a good, not-so-good farewell to Megan Rapinoe

On the verge of never playing again professionally, Megan Rapinoe said she would leave the sport knowing how much happiness it has brought her. On Sunday, the soccer veteran will play her last match in Chicago against South Africa. The South African coach Desiree Ellis cannot withhold praise for her. She recognized that Megan Rapinoe has motivated a great deal of present and former players.

According to BBC, She said “For us to be part of that [what is being dubbed Rapinoe’s “Farewell game”], it is incredible. I think a lot of the players that played and those that are currently playing have looked up to her”. The former USA captain will bid adieu on Sunday after achieving 203 caps. The forward also scored 63 international goals, including the iconic Olimpico against Canada in the 2012 London Olympics. Ellis feels they are privileged to have played a minor role in the soccer veteran’s illustrious career.

For them to be chosen for this specific moment really feels blessed, says the 60-year-old. Interestingly, Ellis concluded, “We are really blessed to be part of that send-off. Hopefully we can make it not such a good send-off!”. For sure, South Africa will bring their ‘A’ game to the pitch. Along with her talents with the soccer ball, Megan Rapinoe will also be remembered for the amount of attention she gathered off the field. Fighting for equal pay for male and female athletes is one of her notable initiatives. Let’s dive deeper.

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One of her greatest contributions off the pitch

The two-time World Cup winner played a major role in fighting for Women’s soccer in the country. Speaking about her on and off-the-pitch contributions, Rapinoe has deeply advocated for equal pay for women in soccer. The much-fought battle brought success with the US soccer governing body, agreeing to a 24 million dollar deal.

The 2019 World Cup Golden Boot and Golden Ball winner has mentioned uncertainty about her role in the sport. But Megan has clearly stated she will continue to use her platform to fight and make the world a better place. Megan will also have a final tribute match in her honor hosted by her club OL Reigns on October 6th.

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