It’s a curtain call for Megan Rapinoe and her international career. The national team bid farewell to their iconic forward in a friendly against South Africa, marking the end of a 14-year-long journey. In the presser, the Olympic medalist revealed her plan after hanging her boots from soccer.

In addition to her legacy for the national squad, the WNT star gained recognition for her support for women that extended beyond the realms of soccer. Furthermore, the OL Reign forward hinted at extending her engagement in the development of sports after stepping away from the national squad.

Megan Rapinoe charts her post-USWNT future

In 203 games for the national team, Rapinoe notched 63 goals and provided 73 assists marking her impact for more than a decade. Transitioning to a new chapter in her career, the USWNT legend is set to focus on the growth of women in sports and establish a better brand that transcends what the industry currently offers. However, Rapinoe has no desire to commit exclusively to any individual sport.

She aims to establish female athletics more profoundly across the world. The USNWT forward shared in a press conference, “I’m so excited to continue to be a part of the growth of women’s sports, not just in soccer. I feel like I am uniquely suited and know how to talk about women’s sports to brand women’s sport.”

Megan Rapinoe also added, “I don’t really necessarily want to be tied to one thing or one organization but looking to use my platform, the leverage that I have pretty similar to how I do now. I will have a lot freer time to do so”. The OL reign striker is also known for her active advocacy for various societal issues. Additionally, the ex-Chicago Red icon believes she achieved some bit of success in pursuing her diverse goals within the realm of women in sports.

Read more: “I’m Not Going To Go Away Forever”- Following Last Dance With USWNT Megan Rapinoe Sends Out Emotional Farewell Message

How the soccer icon did her best to uplift soccer for women in the US

Rapinoe played a prominent role in advocating for gender equality in soccer. In 2019, she wanted equal compensation for both women and men in U.S. soccer and filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Federation, alleging pay discrimination. The American maestro is also committed to supporting the LGBTQ+ community and holds a firm stance against racism in any sporting endeavor.

Megan Rapinoe feels her retirement would provide more opportunities to work on such social issues and establish further progress for women athletes. She remarked to the media, “I feel we did it. We are living in the future, so let us just have the keys, but I hope to be a big part of that kind of business building and marketing and branding of women’s sports”. Rapinoe, with her contribution both on and off the soccer field, will always be a role model for countless in the years ahead.

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