Megan Rapinoe has spoken out after the heavy criticism she received after USA’s “heartbreaking” elimination from the Women’s World Cup.
Rapinoe was one of three US players to miss a penalty when the reigning champions were eliminated by Sweden in the round of 16.
The 38-year-old came under fire for laughing after the missed penalty – the final act of her international career. Critics called her “the epitome of selfishness” and “diabolically arrogant”.
On Wednesday night, Rapinoe and some of her USWNT teammates posted statements on social media following their elimination from the Worlds.
She didn’t directly address the criticism she suffered, but Rapinoe admitted it was a “cruel” moment in her career.
Megan Rapinoe was heavily criticized after USA’s elimination from the World Cup
Rapinoe was one of three US players to miss a penalty in their elimination against Sweden
The 38-year-old was criticized for laughing after the missed penalty
“This game is so beautiful, even at its most gruesome moments.” “This group was very special and I am immensely proud of each and every one of us,” Rapinoe wrote alongside a photo of the devastated team.
“After my departure, this team is in special hands, just like it always was and always will be.” Because that’s what this team is about.
“We risk everything every time.” We fight with everything we have, for everything we deserve, for every person we can.
“It’s been an honor to play for our country with so many incredible women for so many years. ‘Thank you a thousand times.’
The team’s “inexplicable” exit from the tournament sparked calls for a “fundamental” overhaul of women’s soccer in the United States.
Rapinoe and some of her USWNT teammates released statements on social media
“This game is so beautiful, even at its most gruesome moments,” Rapinoe wrote Wednesday night
But Rapinoe’s teammates Lindsey Horan and Sophia Smith both promised the team will bounce back.
“Heartbroken,” wrote Smith, one of the team’s standout players at the tournament.
“This World Cup was full of emotions, what I learned is more valuable than any experience I have ever had.”
“Thank you to those who believed and supported us throughout the tournament and especially to those who still do and have never stopped.”
“Life would not be without moments like this and I know without a doubt that we will come back hungrier than ever.”
Sophia Smith, one of USA’s standout players at the World Cup, said she was ‘heartbroken’
Lindsey Horan even thanked the team’s “doubters” as she reflected on the round of 16 elimination
Horan even thanked the team’s “doubters” as she reflected on the round of 16 elimination.
“It’s unbelievable… what emotions football can give you.” So are we playing right? Living in the moments of greatest pressure. “Playing on the biggest stage,” she wrote.
“To play for something you’ve dreamed of all your life.” Play to inspire. Play to bring joy. I play in front of you all. That’s why I love this game so much. Thank you to everyone who has supported us. Thank you to everyone who doubted us.
“I’m so proud of this team.” So so proud. This one will hurt for a while. Disappointed not to progress but this is football. In soccer, you can win and lose to the second or to the millimeter. we will grow We’ll be back.’
That defiant sentiment was echoed by forward Lynn Williams, who denounced those who “inscrubably” questioned the team’s “commitment”.
Lynn Williams (right) “unfathomably” hit out at those who questioned the team’s “commitment”.
“Sometimes football can be cruel,” she wrote. We sacrifice so much for this game – time away from our families, tearing up our bodies, and a billion other things most people will never understand. It is unfathomable that our commitment and motivations for wearing the Coat of Arms are being questioned.
“I’m proud of this team! When it didn’t work, we came together to find a solution. It worked. Our performance against Sweden was beautiful to watch from the touchline, and a pleasure to play from the pitch. That was us. Play freely and rediscover our joy. Unfortunately, football can be cruel.
“Personally, I’m proud of everything I’ve done.” A Fresno, California girl who wasn’t raised in the youth soccer system, who only one university gave a chance (Pepperdine), and who has struggled, scratched, and clawed her way Women had to fight their way into this elite and power team.
“I hope that my story can inspire just one person to not take ‘no’ for an answer and to keep fighting, even when one feels overlooked and undervalued.” Bearing this coat of arms is always an honor and a privilege … Thanks.