MEGAN RAPINOE’S REPLACEMENT CONTINUES THE LEGACY OF THE UNLIKABLE USWNT
With Megan Rapinoe’s retirement, Lindsey Horan steps up to carry on the tradition of making the USWNT the most disliked team in sports. Over the past few years, the team has done everything possible to divide its fanbase and lose supporters. From players taking a knee during the National Anthem to promoting radical politics and advocating for biological men in women’s sports, the USWNT has become insufferable.
One group that had escaped the team’s criticism until now is the loyal American soccer fans who support the team no matter what. However, Horan, the captain of the national team, recently changed that. In an interview with The Athletic, Horan expressed her belief that American soccer fans are not intelligent and lack understanding of the game. She did acknowledge that it is improving, but her comments still reflect a disdain for the fans.
Horan’s frustrations seem to stem from the fallout at the Women’s World Cup, where former USWNT captain Carli Lloyd criticized the team’s celebratory behavior after a disappointing draw with Portugal. Lloyd also addressed the sense of entitlement among players, which was met with backlash from those unwilling to accept constructive criticism. Horan took exception to Lloyd’s remarks, initially claiming that Lloyd had no understanding of the team’s experiences. However, Horan later admitted that the USWNT was not fully prepared for the tournament, validating Lloyd’s criticisms.
It is evident that Lloyd’s comments continue to haunt Horan, and she is now directing her frustrations towards the fans who continue to support the team. Despite the team’s shortcomings, Horan’s remarks only further alienate the dedicated supporters.
In conclusion, Lindsey Horan has embraced the role left by Megan Rapinoe and is contributing to the USWNT’s reputation as an unlikable team. With her comments about American soccer fans and her refusal to acknowledge valid criticisms, Horan further divides the fanbase and undermines the loyalty of supporters.