England Women manager Sarina Wiegman has paid tribute to “trailblazer” Megan Rapinoe after the two-time World Cup winner played her final game for the United States before retirement.
Rapinoe’s farewell appearance in international football came in a 2-0 friendly win against South Africa in Chicago, with the 38-year-old involved in both goals.
Rapinoe won the Golden Boot, Golden Ball and Ballon d’Or for her role in the USWNT’s triumphant 2019 World Cup campaign, but has also been influential off the pitch by speaking out against racism, standing up for LGBTQ+ rights and calling for equal pay in women’s soccer.
Speaking ahead of England’s Nations League game against the Netherlands on Tuesday, Wiegman said of Rapinoe’s legacy: “I think she is one of the most important players.
“I think the US were the trailblazers in women’s football, and also (for) the position of women in society.
“I think we should be all very thankful for what she leaves behind. I have so much respect for her.”
Her impact is undeniable.#USWNT x @ATT pic.twitter.com/927avNEx1A
— U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team (@USWNT) September 25, 2023
Wiegman’s own players have been driving change of their own, finally reaching an agreement with the Football Association over performance-related bonuses after protracted negotiations.
“I think this group of women are very conscious of society too and using the platform in a positive way to change society,” Wiegman said of the Lionesses.
“They are so outspoken and well spoken, they articulate themselves so well.”
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Rapinoe left the Soldier Field pitch on Sunday in the 54th minute to a standing ovation from the crowd.
With 203 caps and 63 goals for her national team, she played in four World Cups, winning in 2015 as well as 2019, and helped the USWNT to Olympic gold at the 2012 London Games.
“It has been such an honour to be able to wear this shirt, play with all these players and live out my childhood dream,” Rapinoe said at the end of the game.
“I know that I am a liked player. And I know that I mean a lot to the game. But to have this night come and to actually feel it and see it — from my team-mates, from our staff and certainly from the fans, who have been such a huge part of our success on and off the field, really — it was very special.”
Rapinoe is scheduled to play her last National Women’s Soccer League regular-season game with OL Reign on October 6 against Washington Spirit in Seattle.
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(Photo: Getty Images)
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