11/11/2023
Sports
Megan Rapinoe is renowned for her prowess on the soccer field. But beyond being a gifted athlete, she has established herself as an advocate for gender equality and LBGTQ+ rights and continues to inspire people across America and beyond. Here's some lesser-known facts about Megan Rapinoe.
Megan Anna Rapinoe was born on July 5, 1985, in Redding, California. She displayed her passion for soccer early in life and quickly attracted attention for her stellar performance. Megan played for the University of Portland Pilots during her collegiate career, helping lead the team to a national championship in 2005.
Rapinoe's professional career kicked off in 2009 with the Chicago Red Stars, a team associated with Women's Professional Soccer (WPS), and she currently plays for OL Reign. What sets her apart in her professional career is her record of achievement. She's won numerous accolades, including the Golden Ball and Golden Boot at the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup.
Undoubtedly, Megan Rapinoe's global recognition skyrocketed due to her involvement with the US Women's National Team (USWNT). Beyond two World Cup titles in 2015 and 2019, she also secured a gold medal in the 2012 London Olympics.
Alongside her soccer career, Rapinoe is also known for her activism. Openly gay, she's a staunch advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has used her platform to campaign for equality. Rapinoe was one of five national team players to file a wage discrimination complaint against the U.S. Soccer Federation, further propelling her into the spotlight as an advocate for gender equality.
Rapinoe's influence extends well beyond the soccer field. She has made numerous media appearances and even co-hosted the ESPYs in 2020. In 2019, TIME magazine named her one of the 100 most influential people in the world.
Megan Rapinoe is much more than just an accomplished soccer player. She is a trailblazer and a role model who personifies excellence and defends notions of equality and justice. She’s not only changed the game, but the world, with her outspoken activism and mesmerizing soccer skills.
