Megan Rapinoe participated in four FIFA Women’s World Cups, reaching the final in three of those! She won the title twice, in 2015 and 2019 🏆🏆

Megan Rapinoe: A World Cup Legend Whose Celebration Defined a Generation

Few players in women’s soccer history have left as indelible a mark on the game as Megan Rapinoe. A trailblazer both on and off the pitch, Rapinoe’s FIFA Women’s World Cup legacy is cemented not just in the statistics, but in the moments that electrified fans around the world. Across four World Cups, she made history, inspired millions, and became an icon of the sport—culminating in one unforgettable celebration that became the defining image of France 2019.

A Career Defined by World Cup Greatness

Megan Rapinoe’s journey with the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) in World Cup competition began in 2011, when the tournament was hosted by Germany. Though the team ultimately fell short in the final against Japan in a dramatic penalty shootout, Rapinoe made her presence felt. Her technical prowess and creative play as a winger gave the U.S. squad a critical attacking edge.

But it was 2015 in Canada where Rapinoe’s legend truly began to take shape. The United States came into the tournament determined to reclaim the trophy they hadn’t held since 1999. With Rapinoe pulling strings on the flank, the U.S. charged through the competition. Her performance in the opening match against Australia, where she scored twice and delivered a commanding performance, set the tone for the tournament. The U.S. would go on to defeat Japan 5-2 in the final, with Rapinoe named to the tournament’s All-Star Team.

Four years later, in France 2019, Megan Rapinoe etched her name permanently into sports history—not just for her goals, but for a celebration that became a viral cultural symbol.

The Celebration That Echoed Around the World

It happened on June 28, 2019, during the U.S. quarterfinal match against France. With pressure mounting and the host nation threatening an upset, it was Rapinoe who rose to the occasion. She scored a stunning free-kick goal in the 5th minute to give the U.S. an early lead. Later in the match, she added a second goal, helping her team eliminate the French in Paris.

After each goal, she struck a pose—arms outstretched, chin lifted, a defiant smirk on her face. It was confident. It was regal. It was unmistakably Rapinoe. The celebration was instantly iconic, encapsulating everything she stood for: pride, defiance, excellence, and leadership.

The pose quickly became one of the most memorable images of the tournament—and arguably, of women’s soccer history. Fans, celebrities, and fellow athletes around the world copied it. Even late-night TV hosts joked that if you didn’t know who Rapinoe was before, you did now.

France 2019: A Crowning Achievement

That tournament wasn’t just a personal victory for Rapinoe—it was a triumphant campaign for a U.S. team that played under intense global scrutiny. Rapinoe finished the 2019 Women’s World Cup with six goals and three assists, earning both the Golden Boot (top scorer) and the Golden Ball (best player).

In the final against the Netherlands, Rapinoe calmly converted a penalty kick in the 61st minute, opening the scoring in a game the U.S. would win 2-0. It marked their second consecutive World Cup title, and Rapinoe’s second as well.

In total, Megan Rapinoe participated in four FIFA Women’s World Cups: 2011, 2015, 2019, and 2023. She reached the final in three of those tournaments and won the title twice—an incredible achievement that places her among the most decorated players in the history of the game.

She scored nine goals across her World Cup appearances and contributed countless key assists, tactical plays, and moments of leadership that helped elevate her team.

Beyond the Goals: A Global Voice for Equality

While her on-field heroics earned her trophies, it’s Megan Rapinoe’s off-the-field influence that expanded her legend. She has used her global platform to advocate for gender pay equity, racial justice, LGBTQ+ rights, and freedom of expression. During the 2019 tournament, Rapinoe’s clash with then-U.S. President Donald Trump, following her refusal to visit the White House, made global headlines.

In the face of criticism, Rapinoe never backed down. She remained unapologetic in both her opinions and her excellence. After the 2019 final, she gave a rousing speech at the championship rally in New York City, calling for unity and progress in both sport and society.

Her outspokenness only amplified her impact—especially among younger generations looking for fearless role models.

The 2023 World Cup and a Poetic Farewell

Rapinoe returned for one last dance in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. Although the U.S. fell short in that tournament—exiting earlier than expected—Rapinoe’s influence remained palpable. She passed the torch to a new generation of talent, including Sophia Smith, Trinity Rodman, and others.

She announced her retirement from international soccer shortly after the tournament, bringing an end to a glittering international career that included 203 caps, 63 goals, and dozens of assists. But the legacy she left behind is far greater than the numbers.

A Symbol of Power and Pride

It’s rare to find an athlete whose image transcends sport. For many, that pose in France 2019 is not just a celebration—it’s a statement.

It represents a woman unapologetically commanding space in a world that so often tries to shrink outspoken voices. It symbolizes the fight for equity in women’s sports, the rise of unapologetic pride in identity, and the power of standing tall even when standing alone.

Rapinoe’s celebration was more than just a viral moment—it was a battle cry.

Final Word: A Legend Etched in Time

Megan Rapinoe’s FIFA Women’s World Cup journey will forever be remembered not only for the medals and the goals but for the meaning she brought to each match. Her performances lifted trophies, her celebration lifted spirits, and her words sparked necessary conversations.

In the annals of soccer history, her name will be written among the greats. And in the hearts of fans across the globe, Megan Rapinoe will remain the fearless icon who dared to raise her arms and declare, without saying a word: “I’m here. I’m proud. I’m unstoppable.”

The rest, as they say, is history. 🏆