Daily Sports Digests

 

American Soccer Legend Megan Rapinoe’s Jersey Retired by Former NWSL Club Seattle Reign

 

American soccer legend Megan Rapinoe was honored with a jersey retirement ceremony by her former National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) club, Seattle Reign FC, before their match against the North Carolina Courage on Sunday.

The two-time World Cup champion and Olympic gold medalist was presented with her No. 15 jersey framed and received a heartfelt ovation from the 16,598 fans in attendance at Lumen Field—the second-largest crowd for a regular season game in the club’s history.

The 39-year-old Rapinoe described the event as a “very special day” and expressed her gratitude to the club, fans, and her family for the recognition.

“Every time I look at that number, I’m going to see you,” Rapinoe told the crowd during the ceremony. “Every Pride flag, every trans rights flag, every Black Lives Matter flag, and every equal pay flag. And yes, every ‘F**k Portland’ flag. I’ll see purple and pink hair, a streak of blue, and families I feel like I grew up with. When you look up and think of me, know that I’m looking up and thinking of all of you and the incredible moments we shared.”

Rapinoe retired from soccer at the end of the 2023 NWSL season. Beyond her impressive on-field accomplishments, she is renowned for her advocacy on social issues, including LGBTQ+ rights, racial equality, and gender and pay equity. In 2022, Rapinoe became the first soccer player to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

“Thank you to every fan and supporter of this club over the years,” Rapinoe added. “Your support means more to me than I can ever express. I was part of the club’s first 11 years as a player, and I’ll be part of the next 111 as a fan.”

A banner featuring Rapinoe’s image with “You Changed the Game #15” was raised at Lumen Field, while fans held up cards spelling out “R15E” in pink and black.

Seattle Reign Secures Last-Minute Victory

Following the jersey retirement ceremony, the Reign enjoyed a thrilling return to play after the league’s Olympic break.

In a closely contested first half, Seattle gradually took control. Ji So-yun, Jordyn Huitema, and Tziarra King all tested Courage goalkeeper Casey Murphy, while Jaelin Howell hit the woodwork in her debut.

As the match seemed set to end in a draw, teenager Emeri Adames had different plans. In stoppage time, Veronica Latsko delivered a cross into the box, and Adames rose to head the ball past Murphy, sparking wild celebrations from the home crowd.

Although the goal was officially recorded as an own goal by Murphy, the Reign players celebrated with Adames, who performed Rapinoe’s iconic celebration at the corner flag.

The win marked the Reign’s first regular season victory since May 3 and extended their unbeaten streak to five games, following four consecutive draws. Head coach Laura Harvey also reached a milestone, becoming the first NWSL coach to achieve 100 wins, solidifying her status as the league’s winningest coach.

Code: LEGEND2025