“I Am Beyond Sorry”- After Missing Penalty Like Megan Rapinoe, 35-Year-Old USWNT Star Pens Moving Message and Earns Approval From Teammates

The dust is slowly settling after the round of 16 exit of the USWNT from the 2023 World Cup. The team’s unexpected departure sparked intense discussions about the factors contributing to this surprising defeat. In a nail-biting encounter, Sweden emerged as the victor, securing a 5-4 scoreline against the United States. 

The hopes of the reigning champs were dashed when key players like Megan Rapinoe missed crucial penalty shots. This marked the bitter end of their Women’s World Cup campaign, leaving players and fans devastated. In the wake of their dramatic exit from the World Cup, the 35-year-old USWNT star who missed a penalty in that pivotal match opened up about her feelings.

USWNT defender’s heartfelt message after World Cup exit

In the round of 16 match with Sweden, with the score tied at 4-4, USWNT defender Kelley O’Hara stepped up to take the penalty kick and saw her shot curl off the right post and bounce away. The 35-year-old USWNT defender recently took to Instagram to share her feelings about the World Cup exit. Which have garnered attention from the USWNT teammates Megan Rapinoe and Naomi Girma.

O’Hara wrote in her heartfelt Instagram post, “I love this game so deeply. And when you love something deeply, you give it the ability to break your heart. I know that in sports, the outcome of a game is the culmination of a million little moments. However, I was asked to do one job at the final critical moment, and I did not execute. For that, I am beyond sorry. To every person who has shared kind words with me – thank you. Your goodness has helped keep my heart from completely breaking. “

O’Hara commended her team’s courage, passion, and dedication. “I am proud of this team. For each player’s courage, passion, and dedication. There is work that needs to be done, there always is, but the future is bright and I will always believe in this team. 🇺🇸”. She added.

Also Read: After Dubbing Penalty Miss a ‘Dark Comedy,’ Megan Rapinoe Endorses USWNT’s Message and Thanks Supporters, Amid Early World Cup Exit

Young players played a big part in the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team’s time on the field during the 2023 World Cup. The idea is that these young players will stay on the team for a long time. 

The next generation: building for the future

One of the best players in the tournament for USWNT was Naomi Girma, who is 23 years old. Two other important players were Sophia Smith, also 23, and Trinity Rodman, 21. The team had some challenging moments during the tournament, but this will help them learn and get better.

In the future, the team hopes to have more good players like Mallory Swanson, who is 25, and Catarina Macario, who is 23. Another player, Emily Fox, who is 25, also did well in her role in 2023. The team decided to focus on the future and the present during this World Cup, even though they didn’t win right away. But USWNT is building a solid foundation for doing well in future tournaments.

The U.S. Women’s National Team leaving the 2023 World Cup made them think about things and want to get better. Also, Young talents like Naomi Girma, Sophia Smith, and Trinity Rodman give hope for the team’s future. 

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