Home/Soccer

via Getty

via Getty

Megan Rapinoe’s shocking announcement about hanging up her boots after the World Cup devastated the entire women’s soccer fans. The two-time World Cup winner will be retiring after hopefully helping the Stars get their third consecutive win. Unfortunately, the soccer veteran has been seen mostly on the bench during the entire tournament. Furthermore, Megan Rapinoe also admitted she was disappointed not to play against the Netherlands.

The 38-year-old, who will retire after the tournament, was also benched for the USWNT’s opener against Vietnam but appeared as a substitute. Despite Rapinoe’s experience and leadership skills, fans are unhappy as their soccer idol receives less playtime. Interestingly, the soccer veteran reflected on her legacy and Lindsey Horan’s leadership skills during Sunday’s press conference.

Megan Rapinoe on USWNT captain, Lindsey Horan

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

The USWNT are off to a good start in defending their World Cup title. However, the 38-year-old soccer veteran recently admitted disappointment at being benched the entire game against the Netherlands. After announcing her retirement, fans were excited to give the American soccer star a proper farewell. However, Rapinoe’s changed role is restricting her with less playtime on the field.

DIVE DEEPER: 20 Years Older Than Youngest US Star at World Cup, Megan Rapinoe’s Less Involvement With USWNT Explained by Analyst

Interestingly, the main reason for Rapinoe’s changed role is that the Stars are focusing on building the younger generation. However, it’s equally important to realize the 38-year-old soccer veteran’s value in the squad.

Besides talking about the swallow feeling, Rapinoe also mentions the importance of Lindsey Horan’s leadership skills. Lindsey Horan is USWNT’s primary captain, and many fans weren’t happy with this announcement. Rapinoe mentions Horan’s importance to the USWNT both as a captain and player during the press conference.

She said,” I think she’s, you know, taking on more responsibility, reaching out to players, more understanding; like she’s going to be the one that has to go talk to Flacco. She’s going to be the one that has to address the team. She’s going to be the one that has to score the goal; and you know, put the team on her back and often say like the leaders have to be the shield for everyone.”

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Now the teams like don’t fu*k with her; you know, like don’t get her mad now, other teams know that as well. So it’s like you get that sense of swagger going as well. And I think that helps in her leadership also,” she also added.

Rapinoe’s confidence in Lindsey Horan’s leadership skills isn’t just a friendly compliment. Throughout the tournament, Horan has been playing a crucial role and fulfilling her duty as the primary captain. Furthermore, she managed to bring the Stars close to a draw against the Netherlands with her spectacular goal.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

WATCH THE STORY: Simone Biles and Megan Rapinoe Squashed Between Joe Biden-Donald Trump

Thus, Horan’s skills and determination to lift the World Cup trophy and give a last piece of silverware before Rapinoe’s retirement shouldn’t be questioned.