This city’s about to get kickin’ for a true icon. On Friday night at Lumen Field, the OL Reign will hold a blowout celebration for Megan Rapinoe, who is retiring from pro soccer after the NWSL season is over. There will be live music, photo ops, and all the feels.
Rapinoe’s had such an enormous impact on the global stage with the US Women’s National Team, we almost feel a little selfish embracing her as a Seattle hero... well, we said almost.
⚽ Pinoe-menal career
No matter where she’s played, Rapinoe’s been a champ. She’s won two World Cup titles, three NWSL shields, and a gold medal — impressed yet?
Plus, she’s loyal to boot. Rapinoe joined the OL Reign for their inaugural season in 2013 and has stuck around ever since, holding the club records for most career goals + assists.
⚽ Off-the-field impact
Many know No. 15 for her influence beyond the game. Rapinoe and other pros fought for equal pay in US Soccer and won. She’s also been a vocal LGBTQ+ advocate ever since she came out right before the 2012 London Olympics.
When Rapinoe kneeled during the national anthem in solidarity with NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick in 2016, her actions drew backlash.
In 2022, Rapinoe became the first soccer player to earn the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor.
This always gives us goosebumps.
GIF via GIPHY
Unmatched style
Rapinoe accomplished everything with panache, too, from physics-defying goals to hair immortalized by Lego. Most of all, her 2019 World Cup scoring pose will forever be etched in our memories. You know the one.
Friday’s match against the Washington spirit is Rapinoe’s last regular season home game, but hopefully not the final farewell. The Reign are in the thick of a playoff race, so stay tuned — and grab tickets. We plan to see more victorious poses soon.
