Rapinoe Confirms Retirement Plans Ahead Of 2023 World Cup
By
July 08, (THEWILL) – Megan Rapinoe, the 38-year-old forward for the United States women’s national team, has announced her retirement, following the conclusion of this season.
Rapinoe, known for her charismatic presence on and off the field, disclosed her decision just days before departing for the upcoming Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. As she prepares to participate in her fourth World Cup, Rapinoe, currently the oldest player on a relatively inexperienced U.S. squad, was grateful for the trust of her team and acknowledged the resilience of her body throughout her career.
The American team will be gunning for an unprecedented third consecutive title when the tournament commences on July 20, with Rapinoe’s farewell warm-up match against Wales, scheduled for Sunday, in San Jose, California. Having earned the Golden Boot for her outstanding performance in the 2019 World Cup, Rapinoe played a significant role in initiating her team’s pursuit of pay equity against their own federation.
Reflecting on her retirement decision, she revealed that she had been contemplating it for about a year, noting her desire to exit the sport on her own terms: “I did want to do it my own way.” The veteran forward’s imminent departure will mark the end of an era in American female football and leave a void in the team’s lineup. Nevertheless, Rapinoe’s teammates and fans will undoubtedly cherish the opportunity to play alongside her one final time as the U.S. team endeavours to make history.
