On July 8, I watched an “ABC Nightly News” segment heaping adulation upon the U.S. women’s national soccer team following its World Cup victory. This was a hollow victory because of the disgusting performance of team captain Megan Rapinoe.
I watched Rapinoe stand stonefaced as our national anthem was played before the game, not even bothering to place her hand over her heart or to mouth the words. At the end of the game, she helped push our flag to the ground from the hands of a teammate so they could perform a choreographed cheer.
I should have expected this after her earlier lewd remarks about not wanting to visit the White House if they won and were invited by President Trump.
The news report was the last straw for me as the commentators gushed about these “role models” who will receive a ticker tape parade in Manhattan. Ms. Rapinoe, you wore the initials “USA” on your jersey. Yours is the height of hypocrisy for wearing it after your displays of outright disdain for our country. You, of course, will bask in the glory that is forthcoming and soak up the wealth that you will receive. You will likely benefit greatly from Nike, whose “swoosh” adorns your uniform. Now you and Colin Kaepernick will actually have something in common as you bash our country’s proud symbols and cash in on endorsements at the same time. His grievance was about 13 stars while yours was about 50. Nike sure knows how to pick ’em.
Shame on you, Ms. Rapinoe.
David Reese
Mt. Lebanon