This year’s 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup was always going to be Megan Rapinoe’s last go-round with the United States Women’s National Team. What she didn’t know, though, is that it would end in abject failure, as she missed a crucial penalty in the team’s Round of 16 loss to Sweden.
Regardless of how you feel about Rapinoe, she is a two-time World Cup Champion, Olympic Gold Medalist and 2019 Ballon d’Or Fémmnin winner. Her accomplishments on the field and actions off the field have made her a complicated figure with a controversial legacy, depending on who you ask.
What can’t be argued is her impact on women’s sports and her fight for equal pay for the USWNT.
And because of her accomplishments on and off the field, Rapinoe was honored by the Seattle Storm with a No. 15 jersey. She is, of course, partner to Storm legend Sue Bird, arguably the greatest player in the history of the storied WNBA franchise.
The @seattlestorm take a moment to celebrate @mPinoe as she heads into retirement 🧡 pic.twitter.com/64mEkLLh5U
— WNBA (@WNBA) August 19, 2023
Rapinoe, who was in attendance at the team’s 76-70 loss to the Minnesota Lynx on Friday, was honored by the Seattle Storm, who thanked her for everything she has done for Seattle and women’s sports.
Legendary 👑@mPinoe, thank you for everything you have done for Seattle and women’s sports 🫶 pic.twitter.com/cYvzr0BWTm
— Seattle Storm (@seattlestorm) August 19, 2023
The No. 15 is the same number Rapoinoe wore for the USWNT. It’s also retired by the Storm franchise for Lauren Jackson.
