SAN JOSE, Calif. — The announcement that the upcoming Women’s World Cup will be the last for U.S. women’s national team midfielder Megan Rapinoe was, to a degree, expected. But for U.S. teammate Crystal Dunn, the news still hit hard.
Prior to Saturday’s training session ahead of a friendly against Wales on Sunday, Dunn fought back tears as she described what Rapinoe — who will retire from professional soccer at the conclusion of the NWSL season as well — meant to her.
“I just love her so much,” Dunn said about Rapinoe. “She’s been so key for me in my career. She’s somebody that I can call with the most random stuff.”
Dunn added: “I think ever since when I missed out on the 2015 World Cup and then got back in with the team, I think she was somebody who just welcomed me with so much open arms and she was just like, ‘I’ve been watching your journey and just like, I really appreciate everything that you’ve been through and the work you’ve put in.’ And I think her obviously being who she is and saying that to me is what really sparked our connection.”
Rapinoe’s announcement came at Saturday’s pre-game press conference. The 38-year-old midfielder wanted to make her intentions public now in a bid to avoid any further distractions once the team touches down in New Zealand, where the U.S. will play all three of its group stage games.
“I could have just never imagined where this beautiful game would’ve taken me,” Rapinoe said on Saturday. “I feel so honored to be able to have represented this country and this federation for so many years. It’s truly been the greatest thing that I’ve ever done, something I’m so grateful for.”
Rapinoe and her U.S teammates will be aiming for a third consecutive World Cup victory, with the tournament beginning on July 21. She’ll l have a different role this time around, that of an impact substitute.
