'Gotta win it now' - USWNT legend Megan Rapinoe eyeing 'perfect' end to remarkable career after OL Reign reach NWSL final

The two-time World Cup winner is set to hang up her boots once the 2023 campaign comes to a close. There is one more outing to take in before then, with OL Reign having edged out the San Diego Wave 1-0 on Sunday to earn themselves a shot at the National Women’s Soccer League title.

Seattle-based Gotham FC stand between Rapinoe and a first NWSL crown, with the 38-year-old hoping to enjoy a dream send off that would complete her medal collection. The USWNT icon has told reporters of finishing in style: “This is really the last one. This is the perfect way to end it. Gotta win it now.”

Reign coach Laura Harvey admits that Rapinoe’s impending retirement has given her side added incentive to claim domestic honours this season, telling reporters of a legendary figure that has been showing no sign of slowing down: “We knew this year we had a little bit of bite about us because it's 'Pinoe's last year and we just wanted to extend it as long as we can. I mean, she ran about tonight like she was 28 not 38.”

Veronica Latsko netted the only goal of the game for OL Reign as they made their way into the NWSL final, with Rapinoe getting one over on long-time United States international team-mate Alex Morgan.