On a bittersweet day for soccer fans across the globe, USWNT legend Megan Rapinoe bid farewell to her illustrious career. After 14 years of gracing the field and leaving an indelible mark on the sport, the legendary Rapinoe donned the USWNT jersey one last time. As her farewell game approached, soccer fraternities, players, and even multinational corporations joined forces to celebrate her remarkable journey.
In the friendly against South Africa, as she stepped onto the field for one final time, Megan Rapinoe wore the captain’s armband. The significance of this moment was not lost on anyone present. One could feel the weight of her contributions and the impact she has made on the sport.
Soccer fraternities pay their tribute to “All-American hero” Rapinoe
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The focus of the match is not on the result, but rather on the farewell of a true legend. It is a celebration to reflect on the extraordinary career Rapinoe has had. Nike, a corporation valued at a staggering $139 billion, took the opportunity to pay tribute to their endorsed star, Rapinoe. They created an animated video, shared on X, that highlighted the journey of Rapinoe throughout her career.
A legend. An Icon. An all-American hero. As @mPinoe plays for the @USWNT one last time, she knows the battle never ends.
Let It Rip. pic.twitter.com/Xq08gGR4lr
— Nike (@Nike) September 24, 2023
Accompanied by a heartfelt song, the video encapsulated the essence of her remarkable achievements. In the caption, Nike wrote, “A legend. An icon. An all-American hero. As Megan Rapinoe plays for the USWNT one last time, she knows the battle never ends. Let it rip”. The outpouring of adulation didn’t stop there.
Former teammate Carli Lloyd took to her Instagram story to express her admiration for Rapinoe, reminiscing about the years they spent playing together. “Lots of crosses, assists, goals, celebrations, and some wild ups and downs during our journey! Congrats on an amazing career Megan Rapinoe”. Another USWNT star, Rose Lavelle, also took to social media to share fond memories of Rapinoe.
View this post on Instagram
Through a series of pictures, Lavelle immortalized the moments she had shared with her teammate. Along with the pictures, she also wrote a heartfelt message quoting, “Celebrating a one of kind player and person. Saying thank you doesn’t even do it justice. Love ya so big”. Alex Morgan, another well-known figure in the field, joined in paying homage to Megan Rapinoe.
14 years of hugs and cellys and trophies and tears together. All the feels for Pinoe’s last UWSNT game🫶 pic.twitter.com/8ueNUvvBZL
— Alex Morgan (@alexmorgan13) September 24, 2023
In a heartfelt tribute on X, Morgan shared a collection of photos featuring herself and the talented Ol Reigns forward. Alongside the pictures, she expressed her emotions, stating, “14 years of hugs and cellys and trophies and tears together. All the feels for Pinoe’s last UWSNT game”. However, it’s not just the players who are honoring this legendary legacy of Megan Rapinoe.
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Soccer World bids its farewell to Megan Rapinoe
The global soccer community is coming together to honor and pay tribute to Rapinoe as she prepares to retire from the sport. MLS, the official Instagram handle, expressed their gratitude by writing, “Thank you for all you’ve given to the beautiful game and off the pitch”. The FIFA Women’s World Cup official account referred to her as an “Icon, Legend, and Trailblazer“.
🇺🇸 Icon. Legend. Trailblazer. Rapinoe. pic.twitter.com/h5c2csOPxi
— FIFA Women's World Cup (@FIFAWWC) September 24, 2023
The NWSL also acknowledged her immense contribution and leadership. In their tweet, they wrote, “The game wouldn’t be where it is today without your immense contribution & leadership!”
The game wouldn't be where it is today without your immense contribution & leadership!
👩🎤🫶 pic.twitter.com/E1f7prW1MJ
— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) September 24, 2023
Even rival teams like Angel City FC took a moment to show their thanks with a simple message of gratitude. NJ/NY Gotham FC also had some words of their own after Rapinoe got substituted in the match. “Take a bow, Rapinoe,” they said.
MIDGE. IS. IN. Welcome back! 🖤
Take a bow, Rapinoe. 👑 https://t.co/yiZ1PF0mI4
— NJ/NY Gotham FC (@GothamFC) September 24, 2023
And finally, the USWNT, the team Rapinoe has bid farewell to, wrote a heartfelt message. “Trailblazer. Icon. Inspiration. You’ve made this sport, this country, and this world a better place. Thank you, Megan Rapinoe,” the message read.
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Trailblazer.
Icon.
Inspiration.You’ve made this sport, this country and this world a better place.
Thank you, @mPinoe. 💙 pic.twitter.com/pSvI9aGX3E
— U.S. Women's National Soccer Team (@USWNT) September 24, 2023
The support and respect shown to Rapinoe exemplify her impact on the sport. Megan Rapinoe’s retirement marks the end of an era. But her influence will continue to inspire future generations of soccer players and fans alike.
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