Megan Rapinoe

Megan Rapinoe is recognized as a significant figure in women's soccer, known for her achievements on the field and her advocacy off it. Over a 17-year career, Rapinoe earned an Olympic gold medal and contributed to two FIFA Women's World Cup victories with the United States Women's National Team. She accumulated 203 caps and 63 goals, participating in four World Cups and helping the U.S. secure Olympic gold at the London Games. Rapinoe's career includes honors such as the Golden Ball and Golden Boot at the World Cup, The Best FIFA Women's Player, the France Football Ballon d'Or, and Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year.

Rapinoe began her professional soccer career with the Chicago Red Stars after being selected second overall in the WPS Draft. She later joined Olympique Lyonnais, making her UEFA Women's Champions League debut, before moving to Seattle Reign in the National Women's Soccer League, later renamed OL Reign. She spent the remainder of her career with the club, with her final season highlighted by record attendance at her last home match. Her career concluded after an injury in the NWSL Final.

Off the field, Rapinoe has been active in social justice, advocating for gender pay equality, racial justice, and LGBTQ+ rights. She was among the players who filed a complaint with the federal Equal Opportunity Commission and later participated in a lawsuit under the Equal Pay Act and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, resulting in a settlement for equal pay. Rapinoe received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in recognition of her advocacy.

Rapinoe has also been a visible LGBTQ activist, advocating for trans equality in sports and abortion rights. She authored the autobiography "One Life," which became a New York Times bestseller and is being adapted into a scripted TV series.

In retirement, Rapinoe continues to engage with sports and culture. She is set to host the weekly interview show "Why Are You Like This?" produced and distributed by Vox Media, featuring conversations with artists, athletes, activists, and cultural leaders. The show will be available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and other platforms. Rapinoe's career has influenced both soccer and broader discussions on equality and social change.