Megan Rapinoe exits NWSL championship with injury in final game

SAN DIEGO — Megan Rapinoe experienced a devastating end to her professional soccer career on Saturday, as she was forced to leave the field due to an injury during the NWSL championship game. The OL Reign star was substituted in the sixth minute of the game, which ultimately ended in a 2-1 loss to NJ/NY Gotham FC.

The U.S. women’s national team icon had announced her retirement in July and was playing her final match before ending her career. Unfortunately, she suffered a noncontact injury to her right leg and had to be helped off the field at Snapdragon Stadium.

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As she left the field, Rapinoe shared an emotional moment with former USWNT teammate Ali Krieger, who was also retiring. Rapinoe’s place on the field was taken by Bethany Balcer.

While the severity of Rapinoe’s injury is not yet known, she continued to support her team from the sidelines and even returned using crutches for the second half.

Despite an outstanding career that includes two World Cup titles, an Olympic gold medal, and the Ballon d’Or Féminin, Rapinoe was never able to secure an NWSL title. Her retirement from the USWNT came earlier this summer after earning her 203rd cap.

In a thrilling first half on Saturday, Gotham initially took the lead with a goal from Lynn Williams, but the Reign later equalized with a goal from Rose Lavelle. However, Gotham ultimately secured the win with an Esther González goal in first-half stoppage time, leading to their first NWSL championship victory.