In an unexpected and dramatic turn of events, Megan Rapinoe's storied career in professional soccer concluded with an injury during the 2023 NWSL Championship on Saturday. The OL Reign forward and celebrated figure in women's soccer exited her final game in the sixth minute after suffering a lower right leg injury. The incident – taking place at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego – marked an unforeseen end to Rapinoe's prominent career in professional women's soccer.

The non-contact injury occurred as the 38-year-old was pursuing the ball near the sideline. In a distressing moment for fans and teammates alike, Rapinoe fell and immediately clutched her lower right leg, bringing silence to the stadium. Assisted off the field by trainers, Rapinoe suspected an Achilles injury. She conveyed her initial thoughts about the injury to teammate Rose Lavelle, telling Lavelle she felt a “huge pop” in the back of her leg. Rapinoe will have to get an MRI to confirm her self-diagnosis.

“I wasn't overly emotional about it. I mean, f—ing yeeted my Achilles in the sixth minute in my last game ever in the literal championship game,” Rapinoe said, as reported by Katie Manganelli of Just Women's Sports. “I guess I just rode it until the wheels really came right off.”

Rapinoe's preparation for the championship match gave no indication of the impending injury. She felt “really good” during warm-ups and absolved the Snapdragon Stadium pitch from any blame.

The injury led to an emotional moment on the field as Gotham FC captain Ali Krieger, also playing her last professional match, embraced Rapinoe. Bethany Balcer stepped in to replace the injured forward for OL Reign. Despite the injury, Rapinoe returned to the sidelines on crutches to continue supporting her team.

“You don't always get to have the perfect ending,” Rapinoe said, reflecting on her career's unexpected ending. “I’ve had so many perfect endings.”

OL Reign ultimately lost the championship match to Gotham FC 2-1.