Rapinoe makes triumphant US farewell in win over Banyana

Megan Rapinoe was a winner in her farewell game for the United States on Sunday, setting up a goal with a corner kick in a 2-0 triumph over Banyana Banyana.

The iconic 38-year-old striker, celebrated for off-field activism as well as glories on the pitch, ended her epic US career with 63 goals in 203 caps over more than 17 years with a 54th-minute exit at Chicago's Soldier Field.

"Just so grateful to play this long with so many amazing players and be able to be as successful as we've been on and off the field," Rapinoe said Sunday.

"I feel like when you come into something you want to leave it better than where you found it and I think I've done that."

Rapinoe sparked the Americans to crowns at the 2015 and 2019 Women's World Cups and gold at the 2012 London Olympics, but was a champion for social causes as well.

A vocal advocate for LGBTQ rights who has supported an array of US social justice issues, Rapinoe was presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom, America's top civilian award, in 2002 by President Joe Biden.

Rapinoe, FIFA's 2019 Women's Player of the Year, also was among the leaders of the US women's successful fight with US Soccer for equal pay and conditions with the men's squad.

"She has affected so many people's lives in a positive way. She has changed this sport forever," US forward Trinity Rodman said of Rapinoe.

"I'm so grateful I'm able to play on the same field with her as well as learn from her so she's a legend."

Rodman scored on a right-footed volley in the 18th minute off an assist from Alex Morgan for the Americans, who also beat South Africa 3-0 Thursday at Cincinnati.

Rapinoe, the 14th player to make 200 career appearances for the US women, made her magic four minutes into the second half.

US midfielder