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Megan Rapinoe Reflects on Team USA’s Journey During Pride Month
Megan Rapinoe, a prominent figure in Team USA women’s soccer, revisits her statements from 2019 regarding the intersection of LGBTQ representation and athletic success. As Pride Month unfolds, Rapinoe engages in a heartfelt discussion with her wife, Sue Bird, on their podcast, “A Touch More.” During their conversation, she confidently asserted, “You cannot win championships without the gays.”
Rapinoe’s remarks echo a similar sentiment expressed during Team USA’s triumphant 2019 Women’s World Cup campaign, particularly after a crucial victory against France, the host nation of that year’s tournament.
“Go gays!” she exclaimed in 2019, stating emphatically, “You cannot win a championship without having gays on your team – it has never happened before. That is science, right there!” Her words emphasize the importance of diversity and inclusion within sports, highlighting the contributions LGBTQ athletes make to their teams.
Expressing her motivations further, Rapinoe mentioned the uplifting energy she derives from those who share her identity and struggles. She stated, “I take more energy from that than from trying to prove anything wrong. That is draining. For me, being gay and fabulous during Pride Month at the World Cup is truly special.”
Team USA’s Prideful Representation
As Pride Month brings reflection, Bird asked Rapinoe what it meant to play during this significant time. Rapinoe recalled, “Our team was super gay in 2019. A lot of us were out, and many of our fans, as well as other players, identified as LGBTQ. The first and easiest thing to ensure success is having openly gay players on our team.”
In 2019, five players on Team USA openly identified as LGBTQ. Stars like Ali Krieger and Ashlyn Harris were engaged, and coach Jillian Ellis was also part of the LGBTQ community. This visibility not only strengthened team dynamics but also inspired fans and future athletes.
Statistics reveal a significant rise in LGBTQ participation within women’s soccer. A report showed around 40 lesbian and bisexual players participated in the Women’s World Cup, compared to fewer than 20 in 2015. Such representation underscores the changing landscape of sports, championing diversity.
Championships and Legacy
Rapinoe played a pivotal role in securing Team USA’s consecutive World Cup victories in 2019. In the final match against the Netherlands, she scored a crucial penalty kick that contributed to their 2-0 win. In that tournament, she notched six goals and two assists over five matches, adding this achievement to her earlier two-goal performance during the 2015 victory.
Despite the 2023 tournament ending prematurely for Team USA, with their elimination by Sweden in penalty kicks, Rapinoe reflected on her career with gratitude. She announced that this World Cup would be her last, embracing the journey rather than focusing on an end result.
Off the field, Rapinoe’s activism is well-documented. Following her 2019 World Cup victory, she famously declined an invitation to the White House while President Trump was in office. Her refusal sparked a notable exchange on social media, where Trump questioned her respect for the nation.
Continuing Activism
In recent discussions, Rapinoe has expressed concerns regarding the political landscape, particularly in light of the 2024 presidential election. Commenting on Trump’s potential return to office, she shared her apprehensions, especially for vulnerable communities. Rapinoe stated, “I feel not so much personally scared, but I think about my trans friends and others who will be profoundly impacted by changes in leadership.”
These sentiments reflect her commitment to social justice and the ongoing fight for equality, especially for marginalized groups. She articulated a vision of sports as a platform for advocacy, where athletes can leverage their visibility to drive conversations about crucial issues.
Career Achievements and Future
Throughout her illustrious career, Rapinoe has accumulated impressive statistics with Team USA, scoring 63 goals and providing 73 assists. In addition, during her professional career in the WPS and NWSL, she recorded 56 goals and 34 assists over 13 seasons. Her contributions to the game extend beyond statistics, serving as an inspirational figure for many.
As we celebrate Pride Month, Rapinoe’s reflections offer an important perspective on the intersection of sports, identity, and advocacy. Her journey emphasizes the necessity for authentic representation in athletics, showcasing how diverse identities enhance the spirit of competition and community.
In summary, Megan Rapinoe’s legacy is not only defined by her athletic prowess but also by her courageous activism. She stands as a beacon of change, advocating for inclusivity in sports and beyond. The discussions surrounding her impact enrich our understanding of the vital role representation plays in societal progress.
