Caitlin Clark is making headlines for obvious reasons. The Indiana Fever star, who was recently named TIME’s Athlete of the Year, has found herself at the center of criticism after recognizing her white ‘privilege’, while also acknowledging that her path to the WNBA was paved by the league’s Black stars who came before her. However, that didn’t sit well with soccer icon Megan Rapinoe, who came to Clark’s defense, insisting that it serves as more of a ‘lesson‘ for conservative media.

The USWNT icon, who is no stranger to controversies, didn’t back down to step up and share her thoughts on the growing matter. Rapinoe is apparently in favor of the comments made by the 22-year-old. “Well, I think something that sort of stands out immediately,” began the ex-forward on A Touch More podcast which she co-hosts alongside her partner Sue Bird.

“I think what Caitlin did was speak explicitly about her white privilege. Like, and that is what is receiving so much criticism or backlash. And like that is the lesson. So you know, for conservative media coming at her now, that obviously they’re just showing their whole a**. If fans are upset about her saying that and just acknowledging what is true, I think that says a lot,” remarked Rapinoe.

Notably, after Caitlin’s remark, American commentator Megyn Kelly slammed the Fever star for “all-but apologizing” for her race. This made Rapinoe realize how there are still many unaddressed issues in the women’s game. The former OL Reign (now Seattle Reign) star emphasized the importance of addressing issues directly, explaining that the more you speak clearly about your stance, the less likely you are to be misrepresented or used.

“It doesn’t really leave your beliefs or your stance as a white player to any sort of interpretation. You’re taking the space and owning the narrative yourself. Anytime there’s a positive story in women’s sports, the area, the sort of like quote-unquote area, is immediately flooded with divisive narratives,” concluded Rapinoe.

Seems like the 2x World Cup winner is in full support of the WNBA superstar. Then again, the good thing is that even Caitlin seems unfazed by the criticism as she only cares about the opinions of those who matter to her the most.

Caitlin Clark to use her best skill of ‘blocking things’ over latest controversy

Notably, Clark’s remarks came while speaking to Time in the magazine’s annual edition. “I want to say I’ve earned every single thing, but as a white person, there is privilege,” she said. “A lot of those players in the league that have been really good have been Black players. This league has kind of been built on them.”

Clark emphasized the importance of recognizing and supporting the players who have made the league exceptional. She highlighted the need for brands to invest in these athletes, particularly Black women, and expressed her commitment to driving this change. While all such selfless comments saw trouble knock at her doorstep, Caitlin knows how to turn out all the noise.

“I feel like one of my best skills is just blocking things out,” she said during the dinner in New York City. “The only opinions I really care about are the people I love, my teammates, my coaches, the people inside our locker room, the people I see every single day and I know have my best interest at heart,” she added.

Talk about being prepared and barely giving heed to the outside noise. Then again, share your views in the comments.