“Just Can’t Play That Many Minutes”: Soccer Icon Megan Rapinoe Recently Opened Up on Her Changing Role in USWNT

A powerhouse of talent, energy, and wisdom, Megan Rapinoe, the soccer legend, has been embracing the sport for over three decades now. As an activist, she has inspired thousands of individuals to stand up for themselves and be fearless about their identities. Rapinoe has pushed herself beyond her threshold to continue playing despite injuries. If one believed it to be a retirement sign, they are mistaken.

Decorated with Olympic medals in the 2012 and 2020 Games, and 2015 and 2019, FIFA Women’s World Cup wins besides other accomplishments, the USWNT star is nothing but a delight. The latest changes in the roles Rapinoe endorses for the team’s benefit and the game’s spirit are a testimony of her classic sportsmanship. 

Megan Rapinoe accepts her new role

Regarding playing competitive soccer after recovering from injuries, Rapinoe said she felt a “renewed joy and passion” for the game. On the other hand, is the reality check Rapinoe gave herself. After Tokyo Games, she realized things wouldn’t be the same. Accepting the changes bound to happen, she said, “I knew that things weren‘t going to be the same, and couldn’t be the same, and I didn’t want them to be the same.” 

Despite scoring a stoppage-time winner late last month and scoring her fourth goal in three games, she considered a change in role. She explained, “I mean, I just can’t play that many minutes.” Also, she continued she didn’t have the impact and output she did early in her career. And gracefully accepts the USWNT reserve role, clarifying her presence in the team for World Cup 2023.

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Notably, this decision was not sudden. She went through a series of calls with USWNT head coach Vlatko Andonovski. They have maintained “a really good, honest relationship” since his time with the Reign.

Rapinoe ultimately chooses soccer over other passions

The soccer legend couldn’t be more excited to pursue her other passions. She said that life without soccer would be great. Also, she added that she has excellent people around her. Regarding her business interests, she said she has a whole business structure set up, and “when I am ready to be done, then I can put so much more effort into.” 

But why is soccer still on her cards? She said, “There’s never gonna be anything like winning a World Cup, or playing in front of 50,000 people.” According to her, nothing will ever create that adrenaline rush she felt at the Parc de Princes in 2019, or that she could feel next summer. “So why not keep chasing it?”

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Ultimately, she found all she needed was to feel valued and recognized. Recalling a Stephen Curry quote, she said, “I have nothing to prove. But everything to accomplish.”