Megan Rapinoe (born July 5, 1985) is an American professional soccer player and activist. She is best known for her role as a creative wide midfielder and winger, and for leadership both on the field and in public life. Rapinoe captains Reign FC in the National Women's Soccer League and has been a long‑standing member of the United States women's national team.
Playing profile
Rapinoe is traditionally deployed on the left flank where she uses vision, crossing accuracy and set‑piece delivery to create scoring chances. She is left‑footed and known for her technical control, tactical movement and ability to score from free kicks. Coaches have used her as a midfield creator, an attacking winger and a specialist on dead‑ball situations.
Club and international career
At club level Rapinoe developed through college soccer before turning professional and later returning to play in the NWSL for Reign FC, where she has served as a senior leader. Internationally she has been part of U.S. teams that won the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup, the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup, and the gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics. Her performances in major tournaments have combined goals, assists and steady game management in high‑pressure matches.
Awards and notable achievements
- Key player on two World Cup winning squads and an Olympic gold medalist.
- Runner‑up and awardee distinctions at global tournaments, recognized for tournament scoring and overall impact.
- Club captaincy and long tenure as a leading figure in U.S. women's professional soccer.
Activism and public life
Rapinoe is an outspoken advocate for social causes, including LGBTQ+ rights, gender equity and racial justice. She took prominent part in calls for equal pay for women players and was involved in public legal and policy efforts seeking pay equality for the national team. Rapinoe has used her platform to speak on civil rights issues, sometimes declining ceremonial invitations and aligning publicly with other athletes who protest racial injustice.
Legacy and distinctions
Beyond statistics, Rapinoe is known for combining high‑level performance with visible advocacy, making her one of the most recognizable figures in modern women’s soccer. She has helped draw attention to the sport, broadened conversations about athlete activism and served as a role model for younger players. Personal life and partnerships have also placed her among the most prominent openly gay athletes in global sport.
For more information about her club, position and international career, see references linked here: club, position, national team, and major tournament pages: 2019, 2015, 2012 Olympics. Background on her advocacy and public statements is summarized at LGBTQ+ and equality resources.