Megan Rapinoe had an anticlimactic end to her soccer career. She was injured in the 6th minute against Gotham FC in what was her final professional match. Worst of all, this was the NWSL final, the only trophy that has eluded her in her storied career. The non-contact injury was confirmed to be a torn Achilles which would need surgery. The women’s soccer icon’s latest life update is one that would please fans, as she confirmed that the surgery was indeed successful.
The two-time World Cup and former Ballon d’Or winner is one of the most accomplished women’s soccer players. Her absence was a bitter blow to OL Reign who were hoping to overcome Gotham FC. Despite taking the lead in the 24th minute, OL Reign succumbed to a 2-1 defeat. Megan Rapinoe and the fans watched hopelessly perhaps wondering how her presence would have impacted the match.
Megan Rapinoe shares surgery update as USWNT icon starts retirement life
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The USWNT star had undergone surgery under Dr. Martin O’Malley to treat her Achilles. The star is set to begin her recovery process immediately while also taking time to update fans regarding the surgery through Instagram. Along with posting a selfie of herself, she wrote, “Surgery a success. home, resting, being taken care of (@sbird10). Thank you for all the love, well wishes and good vibes sent my way“. The picture suggested that she was at home being taken care of by Sue Bird, her partner and WNBA icon.
During the game, the non-contact injury happened when Megan Rapinoe was pressing an opposition player. She described feeling a ‘huge pop’ before falling to the ground on the pitch. After the match, she walked around the pitch in surgical walking boots prompting speculation that the injury was not serious. However, it was not to be as the star confirmed the dreaded news pretty soon.
The USWNT attacker will be retiring as a titan of the sport. Despite not getting the movie-style ending she would have hoped, her legacy is one that is unparalleled in US women’s soccer.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Rapinoe leaves as an icon in the women’s game
2 World Cups, an Olympic gold medal, and a Ballon d’Or are just some of the achievements that the USWNT star has racked up in her career. Above all, her contributions have meant that the sport is in a better place than the one she debuted in. After the World Cup victory in 2019, her efforts resulted in equal pay being established for the US men’s and women’s soccer teams.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Recently, the NWSL signed a deal worth $240 million with four broadcasting partners, highlighting the significantly improved viewership and ratings. This move will better the financial conditions of the league and attract better players, thus contributing to better-quality matches. A news that would have left the USWNT icon proud. Do you think OL Reigns could have won the NWSL had Rapinoe not been injured? Let us know in the comments below.
WATCH THIS STORY: NFL Star’s Wife Celebrates Soccer Greatest Lionel Messi’s Miami Transfer With Unbridled Joy