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Who Is Megan Rapinoe? (Who HQ Now)

E.E. Cummings

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Megan Anna Rapinoe (born July 5, 1985) is an American professional soccer player who plays as a winger and captains OL Reign of the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) and the United States national team. Widely regarded as one of the greatest female soccer players of all time, Rapinoe has won numerous individual and team accolades, including two FIFA Women's World Cups (2015 and 2019),an Olympic gold medal (2012),and the Ballon d'Or Féminin (2019). She was also named the FIFA Women's Player of the Year in 2019.

Rapinoe is known for her outspokenness on social and political issues, particularly concerning LGBTQ+ rights and gender equality. She has been an active advocate for equal pay for women in soccer and has spoken out against discrimination and homophobia in the sport. In 2019, she was named one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people in the world.

Early life and career

Rapinoe was born in Redding, California, and grew up in nearby Anderson. She began playing soccer at a young age and quickly showed a talent for the game. She played for her high school team, the Anderson Cubs, and led them to two state championships.

Who Is Megan Rapinoe? (Who HQ Now)

by Shana Corey

4.9 out of 5

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After graduating from high school, Rapinoe attended the University of Portland, where she played for the Portland Pilots women's soccer team. She was a three-time All-American and helped the Pilots reach the NCAA Women's College Cup in 2005 and 2006.

Rapinoe was drafted by the Chicago Red Stars with the second overall pick in the 2009 WPS Draft. She played for the Red Stars for two seasons before the WPS folded in 2012.

In 2013, Rapinoe joined the Seattle Reign FC of the NWSL. She has been a key player for the Reign, helping them win the NWSL championship in 2014 and 2015.

International career

Rapinoe made her debut for the United States national team in 2006. She quickly became a regular starter and has earned over 150 caps for her country. Rapinoe has played in three FIFA Women's World Cups (2011, 2015, 2019),winning the tournament in 2015 and 2019. She also won a gold medal at the 2012 Summer Olympics.

Rapinoe is one of the most decorated players in the history of the US national team. She has scored over 50 goals for her country and has been named US Soccer Female Player of the Year three times (2012, 2013, 2019).

Activism

Rapinoe is known for her outspokenness on social and political issues. She has been an active advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and gender equality. In 2016, she became the first openly gay player to win an Olympic gold medal.

Rapinoe has also spoken out against discrimination and homophobia in soccer. In 2019, she criticized FIFA for its decision to ban rainbow flags at the Women's World Cup. She has also been a vocal supporter of the Black Lives Matter movement.

Rapinoe's activism has made her a polarizing figure in some circles. However, she has also been praised for her courage and willingness to speak out for what she believes in.

Legacy

Megan Rapinoe is one of the most decorated and influential female soccer players in history. She has won numerous individual and team accolades, and she has been a key player for the United States national team for over a decade. Rapinoe is also known for her outspokenness on social and political issues, and she has been an active advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and gender equality.

Who Is Megan Rapinoe? (Who HQ Now)

by Shana Corey

4.9 out of 5