Megan Rapinoe announces retirement from international football

Megan Rapinoe, the legendary forward from the US, concluded her illustrious international career as the USA triumphed over South Africa with a score of 2-0 in Chicago on Sunday.

Rapinoe initiated the match and was met with a standing ovation from the passionate crowd at Soldier Field when she was substituted after 54 minutes.

In her final game, Rapinoe not only captained the USA but also contributed an assist. The audience erupted with cheers when, early in the second half, Rapinoe’s well-placed corner kick met Emily Sonnett, resulting in a spectacular header goal.

Prior to the 2023 FIFA World Cup, she had announced her decision to retire from football at the conclusion of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) season.

“So overwhelming. It has been amazing,” Rapinoe said of the reception she received at Sunday’s friendly.

She added, “It has been really wonderful to hear all the nice things, to have a closure moment, and to play in front of a big crowd again.

“I’ll miss it forever. I don’t think I’ll ever be at a moment where it will feel perfect, but this is pretty close.”

The 38-year-old made her debut for the USA in 2006 and scored 63 goals, provided 73 assists, and won 203 caps in the course of her stellar career.

She also won the World Cup in 2015 and 2019.

The 2019 Ballon d’Or winner represented the United States of America at four World Cups and also led her country to win gold at the 2012 Olympics in London.