November 12, (THEWILL) – Two-time Women’s World Cup winner, Megan Rapinoe, was forced off just three minutes into her final career match with a suspected Achilles tear on Saturday. The 38-year-old was bidding an emotional farewell in front of her home fans as OL Reign took on NJ/NY Gotham FC in the 2023 National Women’s Soccer League final.
However, her hopes of going out on a high were dashed when she crumpled to the floor unopposed while not in possession of the ball. An emotional Rapinoe said after the match: “It was a tough one. It’s definitely not how I envisioned this last one going. I couldn’t have written it any differently.”
The result means the USA international ends her glittering career without an NWSL title to her name, with OL Reign going on to lose 2-1. Rapinoe had already confirmed she would retire after the 2023 season, bringing the curtain down after 17 years and 203 caps for her country.
The fleet-footed winger first made her international debut back in 2006 and went on to become a two-time Women’s World Cup winner in 2015 and 2019. She also won Olympic Gold with the USA at London 2012. Rapinoe represented four different American clubs during her illustrious NWSL career before signing for OL Reign, whom she helped guide to the playoffs on several occasions. She also had a spell playing club football in Europe with Lyon, winning the French title in 2013.
Rapinoe said: “I am just super proud of my whole career and really thankful for all that it’s given me and for how long I’ve been able to play. Even though it was a tough night, it was still amazing and I’m so thankful to be here again, so proud of our group.” The comments underline the midfielder’s appreciation for her time in the game, despite the cruel circumstances of her farewell appearance being cut short by injury.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
