Megan Rapinoe’s ‘Pretty Amazing’ Claims Buried As USWNT Slumps To Their Lowest-Ever FIFA Ranking 

It has been a rather uncomfortable place for experts assessing the US Women’s National Team’s situation at the moment. The unit recently won the CONCACAF W Gold Cup but has still been subject to discussion regarding its competitiveness. Former legend Carli Lloyd claimed that USWNT is not as dominant as it was. But retiring after the 2023 World Cup, Megan Rapinoe gives a positive take on the team, saying ‘pretty amazing,’ contradicting Lloyd’s statement. However, her argument might have taken a backseat after USWNT’s major dip in FIFA rankings.

USWNT was brought under some criticism despite winning the continental tournament recently. And Megan Rapinoe, in a recent interview on The Women’s Game podcast, gave a contrasting claim stating, “Now this team, you know, has an opportunity with a lot of young players who have a Championship under their belt at this young age to go on and like we’ll see what the team becomes. But like what I see so far is pretty amazing.” But it looks like even FIFA thinks otherwise.

The USWNT received a blow as it has moved two places down to #4 in the latest FIFA women’s rankings. It is the worst ranking for the team since the ranking system started in 2003. USWNT saw its first major slide in ranking after the World Cup exit in August 2023, moving to number 3. But after they rose to #2 in December, the team has hit rock bottom now!

Meanwhile, two former legends had recently felt that the team was on a decline. Carli Lloyd, in a recent podcast, said that other teams do not fear USWNT like before and have improved. Additionally, former USMNT star Alexi Lalas also claimed that they were fortunate to win the CONCACAF W Gold Cup. Nevertheless, Rapinoe had a diverse opinion.

Megan Rapinoe backs USWNT amid criticism

Megan Rapinoe felt that irrespective of the results, including the 2023 World Cup, the team is giving their best. The former OL Reign striker said, “Actually I don’t like it all, the like the world is catching up, and like the US is falling behind like,” taking a jibe at the criticism. She further said that it’s impossible to keep winning all the time and therefore, feels that the players can be proud of making the effort amid challenging situations.

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Nonetheless, the USWNT will head into a new era with its soon-to-arrive new coach, Emma Hayes. Leaving the last few months behind, the Stars and Stripes will aim to regain their superiority in the Olympics. Ultimately, the legends have hung their boots, and the reputation of the USWNT lies in the hands of the current generation.