Megan Rapinoe, a two-time world champion with the United States, will bid farewell to the Stars and Stripes in the match against South Africa scheduled for September 24. The game will take place at Soldier Field in Chicago, as confirmed by the United States Soccer Federation (USSF) this week.
At 38 years old, Rapinoe had already announced in July that she would retire from football at the end of the current NWSL season, finishing her career with OL Reign. The decision marks the end of an era for a player who has become an emblem of American women’s soccer and a symbol of broader social advocacy around equality and inclusion.
Rapinoe leaves the national team with an impressive record of 203 appearances, a tally reached by only fourteen players in the history of U.S. soccer. She also contributed 63 goals and 73 assists, beginning her international journey in 2006 and playing a central role in the team’s world titles in 2015 and 2019, moments that solidified her status as a pioneer on the world stage.
Rapinoe was part of the U.S. squad at the most recent FIFA Women’s World Cup, where the goal was to win a record third title for the United States. The campaign ended in the Round of 16 after a penalty shootout, a moment that underscored the unpredictable nature of football and the high stakes of international tournaments. Rapinoe herself missed a penalty in that shootout, a memory that will likely be recalled in discussions about her career and its final chapter.
In a statement released through USSF, Rapinoe reflected on her journey: she spoke of joy and gratitude as the dominant emotions when looking back on three decades in the game. She emphasized that the closing chapter would be marked by the chance to represent her country one last time before passionate fans, describing the upcoming farewell as a special moment for both her and the sport she helped elevate.
She also expressed appreciation for her teammates, noting the profound influence they have had on her growth as a person and a player. The message underscored the collaborative nature of a team sport, where shared battles forge lasting memories and character. The farewell match will give fans a final opportunity to celebrate a leader who has inspired many, including younger players who saw in Rapinoe a model of perseverance and resilience.
Rapinoe’s impact extends beyond the pitch. She has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ rights in the United States, aligning her athletic platform with social activism. Her partnership with basketball icon Sue Bird added to her public identity as a figure who used visibility to push for equality. Rapinoe has consistently linked athletic success with a broader social mission, supporting efforts toward equal pay for men and women and aiming to expand opportunities for marginalized communities.
The recognition she received in 2022, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, stands as America’s highest civilian honor. It reflected a career that blended sports excellence with public service, highlighting how athletes can influence national conversations and push for progress while competing at the highest level.