August 30, (THEWILL) – Megan Rapinoe will play her final match for the United States women’s national football team on September 24, in a friendly against South Africa in Chicago, the US Soccer Federation (USSF) has announced.
The 38-year-old forward declared last month before the Women’s World Cup that she would retire when the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) season concludes in November. Rapinoe participated in four World Cups, winning in 2015 and 2019, and assisted the US in securing Olympic gold at the 2012 London Games.
She was one of three American players who missed her penalty when the US were knocked out by Sweden on spot kicks in the last 16 stage of this year’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand as THEWILL reported.
“People might believe my career ending would bring sadness, but when I reflect on the past 30-plus years playing this game, my overriding emotions are joy and gratitude,” Rapinoe said in a statement from USSF. “It’s been an unbelievable journey. It will be special to have this one final chance to play for my country…and get the opportunity to thank my teammates and everyone who has impacted me as a person and player over the years.”
Rapinoe will conclude her international career with 203 caps and currently has 63 goals and 73 assists for the national side. She has also been an advocate for LGBT+ rights and equal pay in women’s football.
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.
