Re-start without the superstar – Megan Rapinoe denies participation in US tournament

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The footballers in the top league of the United States can finally kick again at the end of June. The nine teams compete against the newly created Challenge Cup in a World Cup-like format for one month in Utah. However, the tournament will go without the biggest star in the league, without the most famous footballer in the world, without Megan Rapinoe.

Her coach at Reign FC, Farid Benstiti, revealed to the French newspaper “Le Progrès”that the American would not participate. He regretted: «It’s a pity. Megan is important to the team, and we could have done something important with the club if she’d joined us. ”

Fear of health

The world footballer, Olympic champion and two-time world champion is obviously not the only player who refuses to participate. One reason for this is the concern about infection with the corona virus. On the other hand, the excess of a total of 25 games in a month on artificial turf without adequate preparation should also play a decisive role.

The 34-year-old star, who repeatedly campaigns publicly against racism and sexism, has not yet commented on the revelation of her trainer. The French newspaper continued: “I understand Megan’s motivation, but I’m still disappointed and frustrated. It will be missing from the team and all women’s football. »

Rapinoe will not have to do without anything despite her refusal. The league had already decided that each player can decide whether she wants to participate or not. Either way, wages and benefits are guaranteed.