Seattle Reign, Megan Rapinoe’s former club, announced that they will retire her No. 15 jersey, making her just the second NWSL player to receive this honor. This announcement comes as a testament to Rapinoe’s incredible impact on the sport of women’s soccer.
Rapinoe played for the Reign from its inaugural season in 2013 until she retired at the end of 2023. During her time with the club, she made 115 regular-season appearances and 11 more in the playoffs, scoring 54 goals and adding 28 assists. She was instrumental in helping the Reign win the NWSL Shield in 2014, 2015, and 2022.
In a statement, Rapinoe expressed her gratitude towards the Reign and her teammates, acknowledging the profound impact the jersey retirement has on her. She highlighted that the jersey represents more than just herself but also her team, city, and a lifetime of memories. Rapinoe’s leadership, loyalty, and commitment have left an indelible mark on the team and the sport as a whole.
Beyond her achievements with the Seattle Reign, Rapinoe was a key player in the US Women’s National Team’s successes, including World Cup victories in 2015 and 2019. She has made a total of 203 appearances for her country, scoring 63 goals and tallying 73 assists. Rapinoe is not only known for her prowess on the field but also for her advocacy for equal pay in women’s soccer and her support of LGBTQIA+ rights.
Seattle Reign coach Laura Harvey praised Rapinoe’s contributions both on and off the field, recognizing her as one of the greatest players in the sport. Rapinoe’s courage, leadership, and unwavering commitment to her team have solidified her legacy as a trailblazer in women’s soccer. The upcoming jersey retirement ceremony will be a celebration of all that Rapinoe has accomplished and the lasting impact she has had on the sport.
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