Megan Rapinoe's Heartfelt Farewell Leaves Fans in Tears at Final OL Reign Home Match
Megan Rapinoe bids an emotional farewell to OL Reign, her devoted fans, and a record-breaking NWSL crowd of 34,130 After an illustrious career with the Seattle club, the legendary striker, known for her activism, receives heartfelt tribute with supporters donning pink wigs Rapinoe's retirement announcement earlier this year makes this final home match a bittersweet moment of celebration and gratitude
Megan Rapinoe was given a heartfelt send-off as OL Reign paid tribute to her in her last home game before retiring. The two-time World Cup champion said her goodbye to the team in front of a record-breaking crowd of 34,130 fans at the National Women's Soccer League, with many of them wearing pink wigs as a homage to her.
With her family and fiance, Sue Bird, in attendance, Rapinoe took the field for the Reign in a goalless draw against the Washington Spirit. As she joined her teammates, the public address system at Lumen Field played 'Ain't No Sunshine When She's Gone.'
"I am aware of the impact I have, but there is a difference between being aware and truly feeling and witnessing it. Seeing the signs and pink wigs and understanding what they signify to people," Rapinoe expressed.
Expressing this indescribable feeling of immense gratitude, joy, and thankfulness for being able to experience a moment like this is truly challenging. The striker, who has dedicated her entire 11-season NWSL career to the Seattle club, bid farewell to her regular-season home game on Friday night.
Rapinoe's colleagues donned warm-up shirts with the number 15, while a video tribute displayed at Lumen Field stadium showcased various sports icons, such as the esteemed Billie Jean King from the world of tennis and the renowned Ken Griffey Jr. from Seattle's baseball scene.
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Fans wear pink wigs for OL Reign forward Megan Rapinoe
"It’s like being at home, the one place where I always feel the safest," expressed Rapinoe. "This has forever been the space where I could truly embrace my individuality.
"To have the privilege of playing my entire career in a single city, it holds a profound significance for me. It is indeed an extraordinary experience to possess this opportunity."
The 38-year-old Olympic champion and recipient of the 2019 Ballon d'Or, declared her retirement at the conclusion of the NWSL season earlier this year. Rapinoe concluded her tenure with the US national team in her last game held in Chicago last month.
Rapinoe has played in 114 regular-season games for the Reign and scored 49 goals. Reign wrap up the season next week on the road against the Chicago Red Stars.
