Megan Rapinoe was left devastated after her career came to an end as she limped out of the National Women’s Soccer League finals.
The 38-year-old allegedly suffered a torn Achilles just three minutes into the season-clinching game in San Diego and then had to watch as her All Rein team lost 2-to-1 to New Jersey/New York Gotham: 1.
Rapinoe won two World Championships and an Olympic gold medal in a glittering career that included 203 caps for Team USA, but the loss means she will end her domestic tenure without an NWSL title.
“Thank you to everyone who has been on the road this whole time.”@mrapinoelast words after #NWSL Championship. pic.twitter.com/3dAAX287Nr
— Attacking Third (@AttackingThird) November 12, 2023
She admitted it was the “worst possible outcome” of her finale.
“It was like a huge pop,” Rapinoe told ESPN.
“The worst possible outcome. I just thank God that I have a damn deep well of humor. But obviously it’s very disappointing to reach the final so early.
“This is life, this is part of the game. Before the game I felt very good, no tension, no calf problems or anything. You don’t always get the perfect ending.
We love you, Pinoe pic.twitter.com/W9hwe5vJuF
— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) November 12, 2023
“I’m so lucky and I’m so grateful to have played as long as I’ve played and played with the incredible players I’ve played with.
“In each new cycle, I got closer to certain players, built relationships and played with some of the best players in the world.
“I’m looking forward to retirement. I’m leaving the field, but you’ll probably see me off it a lot.”