Megan Rapinoe Sustains Non-Contact Injury in Final Match of Career
Megan Rapinoe, the two-time World Cup winner and one of the most iconic athletes of her generation, suffered a non-contact injury in the final match of her career on Saturday, November 12, 2023.
The incident occurred just six minutes into the NWSL Championship match between Rapinoe’s OL Reign and NJ/NY Gotham FC. Rapinoe was pressing Gotham’s Maitane Lopez when she suddenly collapsed to the ground. She immediately reached for her right leg and was clearly in pain.
Rapinoe was able to walk off the field on her own, but she was limping and was helped by training staff. She was later seen on the sidelines wearing a boot on her right leg.
There was no immediate word on the severity of Rapinoe’s injury, but she told CBS Sports Golazo Network that she was “pretty sure” she tore her Achilles tendon.
“This is a tough one,” Rapinoe said after the match. “Definitely not how I envisioned this last one going.”
Rapinoe’s injury was a devastating blow to her team, as she was one of their most important players. The Reign lost the match 2-1, falling short in their bid for a NWSL title.
The injury was also a cruel way for Rapinoe to end her illustrious career. She has been one of the most successful and influential soccer players of all time, both on and off the field. She has won two World Cups, an Olympic gold medal, and a Ballon d’Or Feminin. She has also been a vocal advocate for social justice and equality.
Rapinoe was mocked online by conservatives saying karma got her. She took a knee to support the controversial BLM group that has been exposed as a scam to many. While many support Rapinoe many do not.
Rapinoe has not yet released a statement about her injury or her recovery timeline. However, her fans and teammates have expressed their support for her on social media. So have the people who don’t support her actions on and off the pitch.
“#MeganStrong,” tweeted U.S. women’s national team teammate Alex Morgan. “We’re all with you, Megan.”
“We love you, Megan,” tweeted the OL Reign. “We’re here for you every step of the way.”