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Emotions Run High: Farewell to Rapinoe and Krieger in Women’s Soccer

By Arthur Fernandes

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 11: Ali Krieger #11 of NJ/NY Gotham FC and Megan Rapinoe #15 of OL Reign embrace as Rapinoe has to be subbed off for an injury during the 2023 NWSL Championship at Snapdragon Stadium on November 11, 2023 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Ben Nichols/ISI Photos/Getty Images)
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 11: Ali Krieger #11 of NJ/NY Gotham FC and Megan Rapinoe #15 of OL Reign embrace as Rapinoe has to be subbed off for an injury during the 2023 NWSL Championship at Snapdragon Stadium on November 11, 2023 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Ben Nichols/ISI Photos/Getty Images) /
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In the recent NWSL final, the atmosphere was charged with emotion as two legends of American women’s soccer, Megan Rapinoe and Ali Krieger, concluded their illustrious careers on the soccer field. OL Reign faced off against Gotham FC in a match that will be remembered not only for the result but for the words of encouragement exchanged between the players.

The most poignant moment occurred when Rapinoe, the undisputed star of OL Reign, suffered a suspected Achilles tendon rupture, unexpectedly ending her career on the soccer field. However, it was the warm embrace and words of Krieger, Gotham FC’s defender and Rapinoe’s former teammate in the USWNT, that resonated in the hearts of fans.

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Krieger’s gesture, embracing Rapinoe and offering words of encouragement, showcases the camaraderie and respect these athletes have for each other, transcending on-field rivalries. Rapinoe revealed that Krieger suggested that maybe it would be best to retire, advice given with affection but always challenging for a player passionate about the game.

OL Reign’s US midfielder #15 Megan Rapinoe controls the ball during the National Women’s Soccer League final match between OL Reign and Gotham FC at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego, California, on November 11, 2023. (Photo by Robyn Beck / AFP) (Photo by ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty Images)
OL Reign’s US midfielder #15 Megan Rapinoe controls the ball during the National Women’s Soccer League final match between OL Reign and Gotham FC at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego, California, on November 11, 2023. (Photo by Robyn Beck / AFP) (Photo by ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty Images) /

Gotham’s 2-1 victory was a triumphant moment for Ali Krieger, who lifted the NWSL trophy for the first time in her career. However, Rapinoe’s NWSL career concluded without clinching the title since 2012, leaving a bittersweet taste in her farewell.

Looking ahead, Krieger hinted at the possibility of taking on the role of a coach, a transition that could bring her experience and passion to inspire the next generation. On the other hand, Rapinoe, known not only for her on-field prowess but also for her activism, will likely continue to make an impact beyond the soccer pitch.

The farewell of Rapinoe and Krieger not only marks the end of two extraordinary careers but also underscores the importance of acknowledging the legacy these athletes leave behind. Whether as a coach or an advocate for rights, Rapinoe and Krieger’s contributions to women’s soccer will continue to be felt, inspiring future generations to reach new heights.

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