Megan Rapinoe dubs playing for U.S. team as ‘world’s worst job
Former soccer star Megan Rapinoe slams playing for the United States Women’s National Team as the “worst job in the world”
In the Netflix documentary “Under Pressure: The U.S. Women’s World Cup Team,” the liberal activist and retired soccer player expressed her frustration with the constant criticism that comes with the job, as reported by the Washington Examiner.
Megan Rapinoe calls USWNT ‘worst job in the world’ https://t.co/cXPbMLgEhk https://t.co/cXPbMLgEhk
— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) December 13, 2023
Rapinoe expressed her frustration, stating, “I always say it’s the worst job in the world because if you do your job, then you were supposed to, and if you do one hair less, then you are gonna get lambasted for it.”
Team USA’s Worst Performance and Rapinoe’s Controversial Reaction
This year, Team USA suffered its worst performance in history, losing its first World Cup since 2011. During the tournament, Rapinoe laughed after missing a penalty kick that contributed to the team’s elimination. She later explained that her reaction was a “dark comedy” because missing a penalty kick was unusual for her.
Rapinoe’s Fame and Fortune
Rapinoe’s career with the USWNT has brought her immense fame and fortune. According to The New York Times, the average salary on the team in 2019 ranged from $100,000 to $400,000 annually. With endorsements from major companies like Nike, Procter & Gamble, Victoria’s Secret, and Smirnoff, as well as a lucrative two-title book deal, Rapinoe’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million, as noted by Parade.
Early Retirement and Controversial Injury
Rapinoe previously announced her retirement at the end of the 2023 National Women’s Soccer League season. However, her professional career came to an abrupt end when she tore her Achilles tendon in the first five minutes of her last game in November. In a post-game interview, Rapinoe controversially declared that her injury was proof that God does not exist.
“I’m not a religious person or anything and if there was a God, this is proof that there isn’t. This is f***ed up,” Rapinoe said. “For sure, I tore my Achilles.”
Despite the challenges and controversies, Rapinoe remains a prominent figure in the world of soccer and activism.
Related: Rapinoe Says Injury In Her Last Game Is ‘Proof’ That God Doesn’t Exist
What are some of the challenges that come with playing for the USWNT and how has Rapinoe dealt with them?
Th-netherlands-world-cup-2019/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>infamously laughed after missing a penalty kick in the final game against the Netherlands. Her reaction sparked controversy and led to criticism from fans and media alike.
In the documentary, Rapinoe addressed the incident and explained that her laughter was a way of coping with the immense pressure she was under. She stated, ”I had too much time to think about it. I was just trying to lighten the mood and not let it get to me. Obviously, it didn’t work, but that’s what I was attempting to do.”
The Constant Pressure of Playing for the USWNT
Rapinoe’s frustration with the constant criticism that comes with playing for the USWNT is understandable. As one of the most high-profile athletes in women’s soccer, she is subjected to intense scrutiny and judgment from not only fans and media but also sponsors and fellow athletes.
Throughout her career, Rapinoe has been vocal about various social and political issues, using her platform to advocate for equality and LGBTQ+ rights. While her activism has garnered praise from many, it has also drawn criticism and backlash. This added pressure on top of the expectations of being a successful athlete can undoubtedly take a toll on one’s mental and emotional well-being.
The Challenges of Being a High-Profile Athlete
Being a high-profile athlete, especially one as outspoken and politically active as Rapinoe, comes with its own set of challenges. Athletes at this level are expected to excel not only on the field but also off the field. They are supposed to be role models, ambassadors for their sport, and advocates for various causes.
However, this constant scrutiny and pressure can be overwhelming. Athletes need to navigate through a world where their every word and action is analyzed and criticized. They must balance their personal beliefs and values with the expectations and demands of their sport and its stakeholders.
Rapinoe’s Impact and Legacy
Despite the challenges she faces, Rapinoe’s impact and legacy cannot be denied. As a key member of the USWNT, she has helped lead the team to numerous victories, including a World Cup title in 2019. Her skills on the field, coupled with her activism off the field, have made her a powerful and influential figure in women’s sports.
Rapinoe’s willingness to speak out on important issues has inspired countless others and helped elevate the conversation around equality and social justice. While she may view playing for the USWNT as the worst job in the world due to the constant criticism, it is undeniable that she has made a significant impact and carved out a unique and influential place in women’s soccer.
The Challenges of Balancing Expectations and Personal Well-being
Rapinoe’s comments shed light on the difficulties faced by athletes, particularly those in high-profile positions. Balancing expectations, personal well-being, and the pressures of the spotlight is no easy task. It is crucial for athletes to have a support system in place, including mental health resources, to ensure their well-being and allow them to perform at their best.
As the conversation around mental health in sports continues to grow, it is important for organizations and stakeholders to prioritize the well-being of their athletes. The challenges faced by players like Rapinoe highlight the need for a more holistic approach to athlete development, one that takes into account the mental, emotional, and physical aspects of their well-being.
In Conclusion
Megan Rapinoe’s comments about playing for the USWNT as the “worst job in the world” highlight the immense pressure and scrutiny faced by high-profile athletes. Her frustrations with constant criticism and the challenges of balancing personal well-being with performance expectations are valid concerns. However, Rapinoe’s impact and legacy in women’s soccer cannot be undermined. As the conversation around athlete mental health continues to evolve, it is crucial that we prioritize the well-being of athletes and provide the necessary support for them to thrive both on and off the field.
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