American soccer star Megan Rapinoe, winner of the FIFA Ballon d’Or 2019, will play her last game for her country in a friendly against South Africa on September 24 at Soldier Field in Chicago.
Rapinoe has competed in four World Cups, winning the 2015 and 2019 editions before the World Cup, which was held in Oceania until last month, announced plans to withdraw when the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) season concludes in November.
“When I think about the last 30 years that I’ve played football, my feelings are joy and gratitude. It’s been an incredible journey. It will be special to have this last chance to play for my country and to thank my teammates and everyone who had them.” “It has shaped me as a person and a player over the years,” said the 38-year-old Rapinoe.
According to BBC Sports, the Seattle-based OL Reign player has 203 caps for the United States, scoring 63 goals and also helping her country win gold at the London 2012 Olympics.
Rapinoe was one of three American players to miss a penalty when they were knocked out by Sweden in the round of 16 at the 2023 World Cup.
Now, the United States will play South Africa in two friendlies on September 21 and 24, with the second friendlies at Soldier Field in Chicago and being Rapinoe’s ‘farewell game’.
The forward is expected to retire on October 15 when the OL Reign play their final game of the season with the Chicago Red Stars.
