USA forward Megan Rapinoe, one of the most successful players of her generation, will retire at the end of the 2023 NWSL domestic season – meaning this will be her final Women’s World Cup
Megan Rapinoe has announced the forthcoming Women’s World Cup will be her last.
The USA forward, one of the biggest stars in the women’s game in recent years, made the announcement days before she leaves for her fourth Women’s World Cup finals in Australia and New Zealand where the USA are looking to retain the trophy. Rapinoe has won the title twice previously and also claimed the Ballon d’Or in 2019 after the States lifted the trophy in France.
She will retire for good at the end of her 2023 club season with NWSL side OL Reign, following this summer’s finals, with the play-off final taking place on November 11 potentially her final game should Reign go all the way. The 38-year-old is one of the most iconic players and personalities in the history of the women’s game and will be sorely missed throughout the sport.
Yet Rapinoe isn’t the only global star who could be undertaking their ‘last dance’ at the finals in Australia and New Zealand. Here are some other huge names who may be about to set foot on the biggest stage in the sport for the final time.