Megan Rapinoe, 2019
American professional soccer player who captains
Reign FC in the National Women’s Soccer League
48 x 60 inches
Oil on canvas
“This is my charge to everybody, Do what you can. Do what you have to do. Step outside of yourself. Be more. Be better. Be bigger than you’ve ever been before.”
—Megan Rapinoe
Aside from witnessing some fantastic soccer, one of the most memorable moments of the FIFI Women’s World Cup 2019 was when Megan Rapinoe, a brilliant and inventive player who had just scored a goal, jogged to the edge of the field and threw her arms open in a wide, victorious ‘V’ shape. Reminiscent of Winged Victory—though with her head also held proudly—it was a delight to see this young women celebrate her achievements and those of her team while sharing them with the USA supporters. It was astounding to me that this moment sparked such a heated public conversation regarding the perceived level of arrogance that Rapinoe had exhibited. All this after one gesture when sportsmen have similarly displayed their own moments of greatness without even a whisper being heard. That she has since continued to use her platform to push for equal pay and equal rights is a testament to the strength and integrity of this young female champion.