Megan Rapinoe, an icon in American soccer, had her No. 15 jersey retired by her former NWSL club, Seattle Reign FC, on Sunday. The ceremony took place before the match against North Carolina Courage at Lumen Field, where 16,598 fans gathered—marking the second-largest attendance for a regular season game in the team’s history.
A Memorable Ceremony Honoring Rapinoe
At 39 years old, Rapinoe reflected on her journey with Seattle Reign. She expressed deep gratitude to the club, her fans, and her family, calling it a “very special day.” She received her framed jersey and shared heartfelt words with the crowd. Rapinoe emphasized the strong connection she feels with the supporters, saying:
“Every time I look at that number, I will see all of you. I’ll see every Pride flag, every trans rights flag, every Black Lives Matter flag, and every equal pay flag.”
Rapinoe’s Legacy in Soccer and Beyond
Megan Rapinoe’s impact extends far beyond the soccer field. She is not only a two-time World Cup winner and Olympic gold medalist but also a fierce advocate for social issues like LGBTQ+ rights, racial equality, and gender pay equity. In 2022, she became the first soccer player to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, further solidifying her legacy.
A Banner Unveiled and a Heartfelt Farewell
As part of the tribute, a banner with Rapinoe’s face and the words “You Changed the Game #15” was raised at Lumen Field. Fans held up cards spelling out “R15E” in pink and black, symbolizing their love and admiration for Rapinoe. She thanked the fans one last time:
“Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I’ll be a part of the next 111 years as a fan, alongside you all.”
A Dramatic Finish for Seattle Reign
Following the emotional ceremony, the Reign faced off against North Carolina Courage. The game seemed destined for a goalless draw until the 18-year-old Emeri Adames, in the seventh minute of stoppage time, connected with a cross from Veronica Latsko. Although the goal was officially recorded as a Casey Murphy own goal, it brought the crowd to its feet.
This victory was Seattle Reign’s first regular-season win since May 3, extending their unbeaten streak to five games. Head coach Laura Harvey also reached a milestone, becoming the first NWSL coach to achieve 100 wins—a testament to her leadership and the team’s resilience.
Conclusion: Rapinoe’s Everlasting Influence
Megan Rapinoe’s jersey retirement is a testament to her profound impact on both soccer and society. As she moves from player to fan, her legacy will continue to inspire future generations. The night at Lumen Field was not just about a game but about celebrating a true icon who changed the sport forever.(Superace88)