The United States reached the knockout stages of the Women's World Cup with a 0-0 draw against Portugal on Tuesday, surviving a late onslaught from the tournament debutants to keep their title defence alive at Eden Park.

The four-times champions were playing with everything on the line but spurned several chances to find the net and the addition of veteran Megan Rapinoe in the second half did little to turn things around against a physical Portugal defence.

They survived a huge scare in stoppage time when Ana Capeta hit the post and another when the striker won a free kick just outside the box a few minutes later but held on in the nerve-searing final minutes of the Group E clash.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-netherlands-thrash-vietnam-7-0-to-reach-fifa-womens-world-cup-knockouts-621334">Netherlands thrash Vietnam 7-0 to reach FIFA Women's World Cup knockouts</a>

Goalkeeper Ines Pereira had no issues stopping forward Lynn Williams' header in the fourth minute and co-captain Alex Morgan fired wide from the middle of the box in the sixth minute.

Williams had another header on target in the 14th minute off a cross from Sophia Smith, but Pereira easily gathered that effort.

In the 27th minute, Williams fired a shot straight at the Portugal keeper and smashed a follow up effort over the crossbar and Pereira was again equal to the task for the forward's final shot of the half in stoppage time.

The addition of winger Rapinoe in the 61st minute and forward Trinity Rodman in the 84th minute failed to revive the U.S. front line.

The stadium let out a collective gasp as Capeta's stoppage-time shot ricocheted off the post and the Americans scrambled together a frantic defence to avoid a once-unthinkable fate in the final moments of the match.

The United States move on to the last 16 in Melbourne, where they will almost certainly face Sweden, after finishing in second place in Group E behind the Netherlands who thrashed Vietnam 7-0.

"It's tough to be second, we wanted to go through first," said Morgan. "This team gave everything we just didn't put the ball in the back of the net. And then in the last few minutes, we just had to hold it down, we had to get the result and move on, now we move forward."

"It's just not going in the back of the net," Morgan added. "We have so many corners, we have so many opportunities, we got the crosses, I mean just unlucky you know."

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The United States reached the knockout stages of the Women's World Cup with a 0-0 draw against Portugal on Tuesday, surviving a late onslaught from the tournament debutants to keep their title defence alive at Eden Park.

The United States reached the knockout stages of the Women's World Cup with a 0-0 draw against Portugal on Tuesday, surviving a late onslaught from the tournament debutants to keep their title defence alive at Eden Park. The four-times champions were playing with everything on the line but spurned several chances to find the net and the addition of veteran Megan Rapinoe in the second half did little to turn things around against a physical Portugal defence. They survived a huge scare in stoppage time when Ana Capeta hit the post and another when the striker won a free kick just outside the box a few minutes later but held on in the nerve-searing final minutes of the Group E clash. Also Read: Netherlands thrash Vietnam 7-0 to reach FIFA Women's World Cup knockouts Goalkeeper Ines Pereira had no issues stopping forward Lynn Williams' header in the fourth minute and co-captain Alex Morgan fired wide from the middle of the box in the sixth minute. Williams had another header on target in the 14th minute off a cross from Sophia Smith, but Pereira easily gathered that effort. In the 27th minute, Williams fired a shot straight at the Portugal keeper and smashed a follow up effort over the crossbar and Pereira was again equal to the task for the forward's final shot of the half in stoppage time. The addition of winger Rapinoe in the 61st minute and forward Trinity Rodman in the 84th minute failed to revive the U.S. front line. The stadium let out a collective gasp as Capeta's stoppage-time shot ricocheted off the post and the Americans scrambled together a frantic defence to avoid a once-unthinkable fate in the final moments of the match. The United States move on to the last 16 in Melbourne, where they will almost certainly face Sweden, after finishing in second place in Group E behind the Netherlands who thrashed Vietnam 7-0. "It's tough to be second, we wanted to go through first," said Morgan. "This team gave everything we just didn't put the ball in the back of the net. And then in the last few minutes, we just had to hold it down, we had to get the result and move on, now we move forward." "It's just not going in the back of the net," Morgan added. "We have so many corners, we have so many opportunities, we got the crosses, I mean just unlucky you know." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

FIFA Women's WC: USA manage to enter knockout stage after scrappy goalless draw with Portugal

United States women's team star Megan Rapinoe announced on social media on Saturday that she would be retiring from football at the end of this season.

"It is with a deep sense of peace &amp; gratitude that I have decided this will be my final season playing this beautiful game," the 38-year-old posted.

"I never could have imagined the ways in which soccer would shape and change my life forever," she added.

The two-time World Cup winner, well known for her activism, is part of the USA squad for the upcoming women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-2023-spectator-gets-hit-by-ball-from-different-court-in-a-bizarre-incident-watch-613435">Wimbledon 2023: Spectator gets hit by ball from different court in bizarre incident - WATCH</a>

Rapinoe plays in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) for Seattle based OL Reign -- their season concludes in November.

The winger currently has 199 caps over a span of 17 years playing for her country and also won an Olympic gold medal in London in 2012.

She was awarded the Best FIFA Women's Player in 2019 but her fame came as much for her espousal of causes and her campaigning as for her skills on the field.

Rapinoe publicly came out as gay in July 2012 and has been a high-profile campaigner on social issues including LGBTQ+ rights, racial inequality and gender and pay equality.

She was a leading voice in the US women's team's successful fight for equal pay and conditions which resulted in a lawsuit and eventual new collective agreement being struck in 2021.

Rapinoe made headlines in 2016 when she took a knee during the national anthem in solidarity with NFL player Colin Kaepernick.

"I've been able to have such an incredible career, and this game has brought me all over the world and allowed me to meet so many amazing people," said Rapinoe.

"I feel incredibly grateful to have played as long as I have, to be as successful as we've been, and to have been a part of a generation of players who undoubtedly left the game better than they found it."

"To be able to play one last World Cup and one last NWSL season and go out on my own terms is incredibly special," she added.

Last July she received the highest civilian honor in the United States when President Joe Biden awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Rapinoe was the first footballer to receive the award and one of just six female athletes or coaches.

"Beyond the World Cup title to Olympic medals, Megan is a champion for essential American truth that everyone is entitled to be treated with dignity and respect," Biden said at the award ceremony.

"She helped lead the change for perhaps the most important victory for anyone on our soccer team or any soccer team: equal pay for women."

Rapinoe's views made her a polarizing figure in the deeply divided country, however, as former USA men's international now television pundit Alexis Lalas highlighted.

"Megan Rapinoe has transcended the game of soccer and she's fearless and opinionated and interesting and she is a legend and she's a badass both on and off the field," Lalas said on Fox Sports.

"Now I fundamentally disagree with a lot of her opinions and stances off the field but I'll fight to my last breath for her to have that freedom to express that which she has done incredibly well.&nbsp;

"I've got a lot of respect for her even though at times I disagree with her," he added.

But Lalas questioned the timing of Rapinoe's announcement in the build-up to the World Cup, where the USA are seeking a record-extending fifth title.&nbsp;

"I do think it's a little weird to announce it before the World Cup and put that kind of attention on her," he said.

US women's team coach Vlatko Andonovski said Rapinoe remained an important part of the team for the World Cup which starts on July 20.

"Megan Rapinoe is one of the most important players in women's soccer history and a personality like no other," he said.

"It's been a wonderful experience to coach her in the NWSL and for the national team and I'm looking forward to her being an important part of our team at the World Cup," he added.

The Californian has spent most of her career playing in domestic leagues but had a brief spell in Australia with W-League team Sydney FC in 2011 and two years later played for French club Lyon, reaching the final of the Champions League.

At the 2019 World Cup in France, she scored in the 2-0 win over the Netherlands in the final and was named Player of the Match. She won the Golden Boot as top scorer and Golden Ball for best player in the tournament.

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United States women's team star Megan Rapinoe announced on social media on Saturday that she would be retiring from football at the end of this season. "It is with a deep sense of peace & gratitude that I have decided this will be my final season playing this beautiful game," the 38-year-old posted.

United States women's team star Megan Rapinoe announced on social media on Saturday that she would be retiring from football at the end of this season. "It is with a deep sense of peace & gratitude that I have decided this will be my final season playing this beautiful game," the 38-year-old posted. "I never could have imagined the ways in which soccer would shape and change my life forever," she added. The two-time World Cup winner, well known for her activism, is part of the USA squad for the upcoming women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. Also Read: Wimbledon 2023: Spectator gets hit by ball from different court in bizarre incident - WATCH Rapinoe plays in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) for Seattle based OL Reign -- their season concludes in November. The winger currently has 199 caps over a span of 17 years playing for her country and also won an Olympic gold medal in London in 2012. She was awarded the Best FIFA Women's Player in 2019 but her fame came as much for her espousal of causes and her campaigning as for her skills on the field. Rapinoe publicly came out as gay in July 2012 and has been a high-profile campaigner on social issues including LGBTQ+ rights, racial inequality and gender and pay equality. She was a leading voice in the US women's team's successful fight for equal pay and conditions which resulted in a lawsuit and eventual new collective agreement being struck in 2021. Rapinoe made headlines in 2016 when she took a knee during the national anthem in solidarity with NFL player Colin Kaepernick. "I've been able to have such an incredible career, and this game has brought me all over the world and allowed me to meet so many amazing people," said Rapinoe. "I feel incredibly grateful to have played as long as I have, to be as successful as we've been, and to have been a part of a generation of players who undoubtedly left the game better than they found it." "To be able to play one last World Cup and one last NWSL season and go out on my own terms is incredibly special," she added. Last July she received the highest civilian honor in the United States when President Joe Biden awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Rapinoe was the first footballer to receive the award and one of just six female athletes or coaches. "Beyond the World Cup title to Olympic medals, Megan is a champion for essential American truth that everyone is entitled to be treated with dignity and respect," Biden said at the award ceremony. "She helped lead the change for perhaps the most important victory for anyone on our soccer team or any soccer team: equal pay for women." Rapinoe's views made her a polarizing figure in the deeply divided country, however, as former USA men's international now television pundit Alexis Lalas highlighted. "Megan Rapinoe has transcended the game of soccer and she's fearless and opinionated and interesting and she is a legend and she's a badass both on and off the field," Lalas said on Fox Sports. "Now I fundamentally disagree with a lot of her opinions and stances off the field but I'll fight to my last breath for her to have that freedom to express that which she has done incredibly well. "I've got a lot of respect for her even though at times I disagree with her," he added. But Lalas questioned the timing of Rapinoe's announcement in the build-up to the World Cup, where the USA are seeking a record-extending fifth title. "I do think it's a little weird to announce it before the World Cup and put that kind of attention on her," he said. US women's team coach Vlatko Andonovski said Rapinoe remained an important part of the team for the World Cup which starts on July 20. "Megan Rapinoe is one of the most important players in women's soccer history and a personality like no other," he said. "It's been a wonderful experience to coach her in the NWSL and for the national team and I'm looking forward to her being an important part of our team at the World Cup," he added. The Californian has spent most of her career playing in domestic leagues but had a brief spell in Australia with W-League team Sydney FC in 2011 and two years later played for French club Lyon, reaching the final of the Champions League. At the 2019 World Cup in France, she scored in the 2-0 win over the Netherlands in the final and was named Player of the Match. She won the Golden Boot as top scorer and Golden Ball for best player in the tournament. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US women football star Megan Rapinoe to retire at the end of season

Hollywood star Denzel Washington can now add another achievement to his list of accolades as he is set to receive the US Presidential Medal of Freedom. According to Variety, US President Joe Biden on Friday announced the 17 recipients of the honour, which is presented annually in a ceremony at the White House every July. The medal recognises public figures who have made notable contributions to American society, culture, politics, or world peace.

Among the honorees, Washington is the only actor or entertainment figure recognised this year. However, sports figures Simone Biles and Megan Rapinoe, among others, will also be presented with the Medal of Freedom on July 7.

Washington is one of his generation's most celebrated actors, directors, and producers. Over the course of his career, he has won two Oscars for the films 'Glory’ and ‘Malcolm X', in addition to receiving eight other nominations, including this year for 'The Tragedy of Macbeth’.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-2022-denzel-washington-consoled-will-smith-after-he-smacked-chris-rock-on-stage-466336">Oscars 2022: Denzel Washington consoled Will Smith after he smacked Chris Rock on stage</a>

Other honours he has received include a Tony Award for his work in the 2010 revival of ‘Fences’ and a Cecil B. DeMille Lifetime Achievement Award (an honorary Golden Globe Award) in 2016 for outstanding contributions to the world of entertainment. In 2020, Washington was named the greatest actor of the 21st century by The New York Times, as per Variety.&nbsp;

Hollywood star Denzel Washington can now add another achievement to his list of accolades as he is set to receive the US Presidential Medal of Freedom. According to Variety, US President Joe Biden on Friday announced the 17 recipients of the honour, which is presented annually in a ceremony at the White House every July.

Hollywood star Denzel Washington can now add another achievement to his list of accolades as he is set to receive the US Presidential Medal of Freedom. According to Variety, US President Joe Biden on Friday announced the 17 recipients of the honour, which is presented annually in a ceremony at the White House every July. The medal recognises public figures who have made notable contributions to American society, culture, politics, or world peace. Among the honorees, Washington is the only actor or entertainment figure recognised this year. However, sports figures Simone Biles and Megan Rapinoe, among others, will also be presented with the Medal of Freedom on July 7. Washington is one of his generation's most celebrated actors, directors, and producers. Over the course of his career, he has won two Oscars for the films 'Glory’ and ‘Malcolm X', in addition to receiving eight other nominations, including this year for 'The Tragedy of Macbeth’. Also Read: Oscars 2022: Denzel Washington consoled Will Smith after he smacked Chris Rock on stage Other honours he has received include a Tony Award for his work in the 2010 revival of ‘Fences’ and a Cecil B. DeMille Lifetime Achievement Award (an honorary Golden Globe Award) in 2016 for outstanding contributions to the world of entertainment. In 2020, Washington was named the greatest actor of the 21st century by The New York Times, as per Variety.

Denzel Washington among honorees set to receive US Presidential Medal of Freedom

US lingerie giant Victoria's Secret has signed a new roster led by American soccer star Megan Rapinoe to replace the brand's hypersexualised models, who are under scrutiny for their embodiment of male fantasy over an accurate representation of what women seek in undergarments.

The US store, which brought sexy lingerie to the masses in the 1970s and then made billions, has been overshadowed in recent years by brands that have openly embraced both bodily and ethnic diversity.

Criticised for its objectification of women, Victoria's Secret in 2019 abandoned its famed fashion show, a globally televised event that saw women parade down the catwalk in barely-there lingerie replete with gems, feathers and lace.

"When the world was changing, we were too slow to respond," said chief executive Martin Waters in an interview with the New York Times. "We needed to stop being about what men want and to be about what women want."

One of the first companies to step into the void of Victoria's Secret's dimming star was Savage X Fenty, a lingerie company launched by singer Rihanna in 2018 which is now valued at $1 billion, according to an estimate by Forbes magazine.

In an attempt to make up for lost ground, Victoria's Secret, which saw sales drop 7.7 percent in 2019 even before the pandemic, launched its new collective of female brand representatives on Wednesday.

Among Rapinoe's cohorts are Indian actress Priyanka Chopra Jones and Brazilian transgender model Valentina Sampaio.

Rapinoe, a two-time World Cup champion, has been the face of American women's soccer for nearly a decade.

"Often I felt myself on the outside looking in with brands in the beauty and fashion industry," Rapinoe, a lesbian and activist for women's and LGBTQ rights, said in a statement.&nbsp;

"I'm thrilled to be creating a space that sees the true spectrum of all women," she added.

Victoria's Secret plans to resume its fashion show in 2022, but in a very different format, Waters told the Times.

The parent company of Victoria's Secret, L Brands, announced in May that it had spun off the lingerie company, in an attempt to separate it from its other holdings.

US lingerie giant Victoria's Secret has signed a new roster led by American soccer star Megan Rapinoe to replace the brand's hypersexualised models, who are under scrutiny for their embodiment of male fantasy over an accurate representation of what women seek in undergarments.

US lingerie giant Victoria's Secret has signed a new roster led by American soccer star Megan Rapinoe to replace the brand's hypersexualised models, who are under scrutiny for their embodiment of male fantasy over an accurate representation of what women seek in undergarments. The US store, which brought sexy lingerie to the masses in the 1970s and then made billions, has been overshadowed in recent years by brands that have openly embraced both bodily and ethnic diversity. Criticised for its objectification of women, Victoria's Secret in 2019 abandoned its famed fashion show, a globally televised event that saw women parade down the catwalk in barely-there lingerie replete with gems, feathers and lace. "When the world was changing, we were too slow to respond," said chief executive Martin Waters in an interview with the New York Times. "We needed to stop being about what men want and to be about what women want." One of the first companies to step into the void of Victoria's Secret's dimming star was Savage X Fenty, a lingerie company launched by singer Rihanna in 2018 which is now valued at $1 billion, according to an estimate by Forbes magazine. In an attempt to make up for lost ground, Victoria's Secret, which saw sales drop 7.7 percent in 2019 even before the pandemic, launched its new collective of female brand representatives on Wednesday. Among Rapinoe's cohorts are Indian actress Priyanka Chopra Jones and Brazilian transgender model Valentina Sampaio. Rapinoe, a two-time World Cup champion, has been the face of American women's soccer for nearly a decade. "Often I felt myself on the outside looking in with brands in the beauty and fashion industry," Rapinoe, a lesbian and activist for women's and LGBTQ rights, said in a statement. "I'm thrilled to be creating a space that sees the true spectrum of all women," she added. Victoria's Secret plans to resume its fashion show in 2022, but in a very different format, Waters told the Times. The parent company of Victoria's Secret, L Brands, announced in May that it had spun off the lingerie company, in an attempt to separate it from its other holdings.

Victoria's Secret hires Priyanka Chopra Jonas, US soccer's Megan Rapinoe in rebranding effort

US&nbsp;President Joe Biden will host members of the US&nbsp;women’s national soccer team at the White House on Wednesday as part of his push to secure better pay for American women, who earn 82 cents on average for every dollar earned by men.

Equal Pay Day marks&nbsp;how much longer into a new year US&nbsp;women on average must work to earn what the average man earned the previous year.

The pay gap is far greater when calculated for Black women, who earn 63 cents on the dollar, and Latina women, who earn just 55 cents.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shocked-us-women-stars-to-appeal-equal-pay-defeat-296842">'Shocked' US women stars to appeal equal pay defeat</a>

The soccer squad led by Megan Rapinoe, which won the Women’s World Cup for a second consecutive time in 2019, has sued US&nbsp;Soccer, alleging gender discrimination. Fans backed them up, shouting "equal pay" during the World Cup final match.

The coronavirus pandemic and its economic fallout have exacerbated disparities, triggering what Vice President Kamala Harris has called a "national emergency" for women.

Biden's $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package includes provisions aimed at getting the 2 million women who left the labour force during the COVID-19 pandemic back to work. His next legislative push, valued at some $3 trillion, will also expand child care infrastructure and create jobs, administration officials say.

Rapinoe and teammate Margaret Purce will join Biden at the White House. Rapinoe is also due to testify to a US&nbsp;House Committee hearing on the issue.

"They are heroines because they champion this issue for all women," said Jennifer Klein, co-chair of the newly established White House Gender Policy Council. "This is really true in literally every country in the world – women are paid less."

The team reached a settlement in December with US&nbsp;Soccer on certain working conditions, including team travel and accommodations, but is still fighting in the courts to achieve equal pay to the men's soccer team.

US President Joe Biden will host members of the US women’s national soccer team at the White House on Wednesday as part of his push to secure better pay for American women, who earn 82 cents on average for every dollar earned by men.

US President Joe Biden will host members of the US women’s national soccer team at the White House on Wednesday as part of his push to secure better pay for American women, who earn 82 cents on average for every dollar earned by men. Equal Pay Day marks how much longer into a new year US women on average must work to earn what the average man earned the previous year. The pay gap is far greater when calculated for Black women, who earn 63 cents on the dollar, and Latina women, who earn just 55 cents. Also read| 'Shocked' US women stars to appeal equal pay defeat The soccer squad led by Megan Rapinoe, which won the Women’s World Cup for a second consecutive time in 2019, has sued US Soccer, alleging gender discrimination. Fans backed them up, shouting "equal pay" during the World Cup final match. The coronavirus pandemic and its economic fallout have exacerbated disparities, triggering what Vice President Kamala Harris has called a "national emergency" for women. Biden's $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package includes provisions aimed at getting the 2 million women who left the labour force during the COVID-19 pandemic back to work. His next legislative push, valued at some $3 trillion, will also expand child care infrastructure and create jobs, administration officials say. Rapinoe and teammate Margaret Purce will join Biden at the White House. Rapinoe is also due to testify to a US House Committee hearing on the issue. "They are heroines because they champion this issue for all women," said Jennifer Klein, co-chair of the newly established White House Gender Policy Council. "This is really true in literally every country in the world – women are paid less." The team reached a settlement in December with US Soccer on certain working conditions, including team travel and accommodations, but is still fighting in the courts to achieve equal pay to the men's soccer team.

Biden to host members of women’s national soccer team to mark 'Equal Pay Day'

US soccer star Megan Rapinoe said that she would be "devastated" if this year's Tokyo Games get cancelled due to coronavirus pandemic. As per the World Cup-winning player, her teammates will be disappointed if they miss out on such a "major championship".&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ioc-reacts-to-reports-of-tokyo-olympics-getting-cancelled-says-it-is-categorically-untrue-358581" hreflang="en">IOC reacts to reports of Tokyo Olympics getting cancelled, says it is 'categorically untrue'</a>

"We just do everything we can to keep our environment safe, prepare the way that we can, understanding, much like last year, it could likely not happen again," Rapinoe, who scored twice in Friday's 6-0 friendly win over Colombia, told reporters.

"That would be awful. Personally, I'd be devastated. A lot of my teammates would be devastated to miss out fully on a major championship because I don't think it would be postponed again.

"Someone will tell us at some point, but until then we just keep training and keep playing these games."

The United States women's soccer team won last of their four Olympic gold medals at London in 2012 and are currently the reigning World Champions.&nbsp;

Rapinoe said she understood the implications of bringing the global community together for "technically, a non-essential kind of thing".

"We understand we're in a global pandemic. Our country being one of those that's been hit hardest or handled it the worst," Rapinoe, the 2019 Ballon d'Or winner, said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-the-worst-happens-swimming-australia-eyes-plan-b-in-case-of-tokyo-cancellation-358779" hreflang="en">'If the worst happens': Swimming Australia eyes Plan B in case of Tokyo cancellation</a>

"We're focused on every day. Eventually, someone will tell us if the Games are happening."

Earlier on Friday, The Times reported that the Japanese government has privately concluded that the Tokyo Olympics will have to be cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic. &nbsp;

However, the International Olympic Committee on Friday reacted to the speculations of the Tokyo Olympics 2020 getting cancelled as the IOC dismissed all the reports while terming it "categorically untrue". &nbsp;

While Japan's Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Manabu Sakai dismissed the report, the IOC has given an official statement saying that "they will be implementing all possible countermeasures against COVID-19 and will continue their preparations for holding a safe and secure Games this summer".&nbsp;

US soccer star Megan Rapinoe said that she would be "devastated" if this year's Tokyo Games get cancelled due to coronavirus pandemic. As per the World Cup-winning player, her teammates will be disappointed if they miss out on such a "major championship".

US soccer star Megan Rapinoe said that she would be "devastated" if this year's Tokyo Games get cancelled due to coronavirus pandemic. As per the World Cup-winning player, her teammates will be disappointed if they miss out on such a "major championship". ALSO READ: IOC reacts to reports of Tokyo Olympics getting cancelled, says it is 'categorically untrue' "We just do everything we can to keep our environment safe, prepare the way that we can, understanding, much like last year, it could likely not happen again," Rapinoe, who scored twice in Friday's 6-0 friendly win over Colombia, told reporters. "That would be awful. Personally, I'd be devastated. A lot of my teammates would be devastated to miss out fully on a major championship because I don't think it would be postponed again. "Someone will tell us at some point, but until then we just keep training and keep playing these games." The United States women's soccer team won last of their four Olympic gold medals at London in 2012 and are currently the reigning World Champions. Rapinoe said she understood the implications of bringing the global community together for "technically, a non-essential kind of thing". "We understand we're in a global pandemic. Our country being one of those that's been hit hardest or handled it the worst," Rapinoe, the 2019 Ballon d'Or winner, said. ALSO READ: 'If the worst happens': Swimming Australia eyes Plan B in case of Tokyo cancellation "We're focused on every day. Eventually, someone will tell us if the Games are happening." Earlier on Friday, The Times reported that the Japanese government has privately concluded that the Tokyo Olympics will have to be cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic. However, the International Olympic Committee on Friday reacted to the speculations of the Tokyo Olympics 2020 getting cancelled as the IOC dismissed all the reports while terming it "categorically untrue". While Japan's Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Manabu Sakai dismissed the report, the IOC has given an official statement saying that "they will be implementing all possible countermeasures against COVID-19 and will continue their preparations for holding a safe and secure Games this summer".

Women's soccer star Megan Rapinoe says Tokyo Games cancellations will 'devastate' her and team

Women's World Cup winner Megan Rapinoe has said her inclusion in FIFA's "Women's World11" team of the year despite playing so little is a sign that the women's game needs more visibility and exposure.

Rapinoe, who was named best player at the 2019 World Cup and finished top scorer, said she appreciated being included in the team of the year but pointed out she had not played since March, when the coronavirus pandemic disrupted global sport.

The winger said on Twitter she appreciated being chosen by her fellow professionals but other players deserved more recognition this year.

"We have so many phenomenal female players around the world and all of us need to do what we can to recognise them," she said.

She added that her inclusion "sheds light on the fact that to push our game forward we need continued investment ... to give more female players the opportunity to be seen on TV in their home countries and globally while performing for club and country".

Rapinoe, who won FIFA's The Best award last year and gained extra attention for her criticism of U.S. President Donald Trump, chose not to play for her club OL Reign when the U.S. women's season resumed in June.

But she said she was excited to return to playing next year, when the United States will be playing in the Olympic Games in Tokyo.

"The future of our game is so bright, the potential is limitless, and our commitment to pushing it forward from every possible angle has to match that," she added.

"Again, I am honoured and flattered to have been recognised by my peers for this honour, and look forward to getting back out on the field in 2021!"

Women's World Cup winner Megan Rapinoe has said her inclusion in FIFA's "Women's World11" team of the year despite playing so little is a sign that the women's game needs more visibility and exposure.

Women's World Cup winner Megan Rapinoe has said her inclusion in FIFA's "Women's World11" team of the year despite playing so little is a sign that the women's game needs more visibility and exposure. Rapinoe, who was named best player at the 2019 World Cup and finished top scorer, said she appreciated being included in the team of the year but pointed out she had not played since March, when the coronavirus pandemic disrupted global sport. The winger said on Twitter she appreciated being chosen by her fellow professionals but other players deserved more recognition this year. "We have so many phenomenal female players around the world and all of us need to do what we can to recognise them," she said. She added that her inclusion "sheds light on the fact that to push our game forward we need continued investment ... to give more female players the opportunity to be seen on TV in their home countries and globally while performing for club and country". Rapinoe, who won FIFA's The Best award last year and gained extra attention for her criticism of U.S. President Donald Trump, chose not to play for her club OL Reign when the U.S. women's season resumed in June. But she said she was excited to return to playing next year, when the United States will be playing in the Olympic Games in Tokyo. "The future of our game is so bright, the potential is limitless, and our commitment to pushing it forward from every possible angle has to match that," she added. "Again, I am honoured and flattered to have been recognised by my peers for this honour, and look forward to getting back out on the field in 2021!"

Megan Rapinoe questions her inclusion in FIFA team of year

American football star Megan Rapinoe criticised Manchester United for the lack of investment in women's soccer around the world. The World Cup-winning midfielder said it is "disgraceful" that a club like Manchester United had taken so long to revive their team.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uks-travel-ban-on-denmark-affects-premier-league-stars-and-nations-league-fixture-342107" hreflang="en">UK's travel ban on Denmark affects Premier League stars and Nations League</a>

English giant Manchester United received a lot of criticism for not forming a team after their women's side was scrapped in 2005 and were granted a licence to play in the second-tier Championship in 2018.

The team was immediately promoted to the Women's Super League (WSL) and finished fourth in their maiden campaign in the top flight. They lead the table after six games this season following Sunday's 1-0 win over Arsenal.

"Women's football in England is the same as in America. It's so far behind because of what we've had to overcome in the lack of investment," Rapinoe told the BBC.

"It's 2020. How long has the Premier League been around? And we're only just seeing a club like Manchester United put effort and pounds towards a women's team? Frankly, it's disgraceful."

Many America's women's international players have joined the WSL this year, including Tobin Heath and Christen Press who were signed by Manchester United. Rose Lavelle and &nbsp;Sam Mewis were signed by Manchester City. Alex Morgan earned a loan term to Tottenham Hotspurs.&nbsp;

2019 Ballon d'Or winner Rapinoe chose to opt-out of National Women's Soccer League competitions this year.

"I've had a few teammates go abroad and play, while I'm training and trying to keep fit in the hopes that eventually we'll be out of this hellscape," Rapinoe said.

"I want to keep playing. I'm definitely not anywhere near retirement - I absolutely want to play at the Olympics."

American football star Megan Rapinoe criticised Manchester United for the lack of investment in women's soccer around the world. The World Cup-winning midfielder said it is "disgraceful" that a club like Manchester United had taken so long to revive their team.

American football star Megan Rapinoe criticised Manchester United for the lack of investment in women's soccer around the world. The World Cup-winning midfielder said it is "disgraceful" that a club like Manchester United had taken so long to revive their team. Also read: UK's travel ban on Denmark affects Premier League stars and Nations League English giant Manchester United received a lot of criticism for not forming a team after their women's side was scrapped in 2005 and were granted a licence to play in the second-tier Championship in 2018. The team was immediately promoted to the Women's Super League (WSL) and finished fourth in their maiden campaign in the top flight. They lead the table after six games this season following Sunday's 1-0 win over Arsenal. "Women's football in England is the same as in America. It's so far behind because of what we've had to overcome in the lack of investment," Rapinoe told the BBC. "It's 2020. How long has the Premier League been around? And we're only just seeing a club like Manchester United put effort and pounds towards a women's team? Frankly, it's disgraceful." Many America's women's international players have joined the WSL this year, including Tobin Heath and Christen Press who were signed by Manchester United. Rose Lavelle and Sam Mewis were signed by Manchester City. Alex Morgan earned a loan term to Tottenham Hotspurs. 2019 Ballon d'Or winner Rapinoe chose to opt-out of National Women's Soccer League competitions this year. "I've had a few teammates go abroad and play, while I'm training and trying to keep fit in the hopes that eventually we'll be out of this hellscape," Rapinoe said. "I want to keep playing. I'm definitely not anywhere near retirement - I absolutely want to play at the Olympics."

'Disgraceful': Rapinoe lashes out at Man Utd for over delayed investment in women's team

American sports stars like LeBron James, Magic Johnson and Megan Rapinoe celebrated Joe Biden's win over Donald Trump to become the 46th president of the United States.&nbsp;

According to these athletes, Biden's win has restored their faith in democracy after four years under Trump administration.

These athletes took to Twitter to express their feelings after American media declared Joe Biden the winner after Pennsylvania announced its results.&nbsp;

"My Philly fam! FOE and more THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!! Let's celebrate! Responsibly still," James posted on his Twitter page.

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My Philly fam! FOE and more THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!! Let’s celebrate! Responsibly still 😉 <a href="https://t.co/zcIRuDgr4E">https://t.co/zcIRuDgr4E</a>
— LeBron James (@KingJames) <a href="https://twitter.com/KingJames/status/1325119816231866369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Trump has engaged in verbal fights numerous times with American athletes over the past four years, especially James, who called on Black Americans to get out and vote. He also criticized athletes for kneeling during the US anthem to protest racial injustice and police brutality.

Philadelphia 76ers forward Joe Embiid used capital letters to express his faith in American democracy.

"Well America TRUSTED THE PROCESS and it paid off," Embiid wrote on Twitter.

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Well America TRUSTED THE PROCESS and it paid off <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheProcess?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheProcess</a> <a href="https://t.co/9XfWvQTZET">https://t.co/9XfWvQTZET</a>
— Joel “Troel” Embiid (@JoelEmbiid) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoelEmbiid/status/1325114815493320705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Magic Johnson, basketball Hall of Famer and owner of Los Angeles sports franchises including the Los Angeles Dodgers and Los Angeles Lakers, said he is celebrating for the third time in the past few weeks.

"Today I completed my trifecta: the Lakers, the Dodgers, and now #BidenHarris!! It’s been a fantastic 30 days!" Johnson wrote.

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Today I completed my trifecta: the Lakers, the Dodgers, and now <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BidenHarris?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BidenHarris</a>!! It’s been a fantastic 30 days!
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/MagicJohnson/status/1325149196635185154?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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A star in US women's soccer team, Megan Rapinoe wrote: "Thank you Black Women".

American sports stars like LeBron James, Magic Johnson and Megan Rapinoe celebrated Joe Biden's win over Donald Trump to become the 46th president of the United States.

American sports stars like LeBron James, Magic Johnson and Megan Rapinoe celebrated Joe Biden's win over Donald Trump to become the 46th president of the United States. According to these athletes, Biden's win has restored their faith in democracy after four years under Trump administration. These athletes took to Twitter to express their feelings after American media declared Joe Biden the winner after Pennsylvania announced its results. "My Philly fam! FOE and more THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!! Let's celebrate! Responsibly still," James posted on his Twitter page. My Philly fam! FOE and more THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!! Let’s celebrate! Responsibly still 😉 https://t.co/zcIRuDgr4E — LeBron James (@KingJames) November 7, 2020 × Trump has engaged in verbal fights numerous times with American athletes over the past four years, especially James, who called on Black Americans to get out and vote. He also criticized athletes for kneeling during the US anthem to protest racial injustice and police brutality. Philadelphia 76ers forward Joe Embiid used capital letters to express his faith in American democracy. "Well America TRUSTED THE PROCESS and it paid off," Embiid wrote on Twitter. Well America TRUSTED THE PROCESS and it paid off #TheProcess https://t.co/9XfWvQTZET — Joel “Troel” Embiid (@JoelEmbiid) November 7, 2020 × Magic Johnson, basketball Hall of Famer and owner of Los Angeles sports franchises including the Los Angeles Dodgers and Los Angeles Lakers, said he is celebrating for the third time in the past few weeks. "Today I completed my trifecta: the Lakers, the Dodgers, and now #BidenHarris!! It’s been a fantastic 30 days!" Johnson wrote. Today I completed my trifecta: the Lakers, the Dodgers, and now #BidenHarris!! It’s been a fantastic 30 days! — Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) November 7, 2020 × A star in US women's soccer team, Megan Rapinoe wrote: "Thank you Black Women".

'THANK YOU!': LeBron James, Megan Rapinoe and others celebrate Joe Biden's win

Star footballer Megan Rapinoe and women’s basketball star Sue Bird, who met at the Rio Olympics 2016, have announced their engagement. Taking to social media platform Instagram, the duo announced that they are getting hitched.&nbsp;

Rapinoe, a two-time World Cup winner, and Sue Bird, 11-time WNBA All-Star, have been dating since 2017 and have now gotten engaged.

One of the most powerful couples in the world of sports, the pair announced their engagement with a photograph on Bird’s Instagram account on October 30. As per Reuters, Rapinoe’s agent confirmed the news as social media showered their blessings and good wishes on the couple.&nbsp;

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CG_GSVFhsYm/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Sue Bird (@sbird10)</a> on <time datetime="2020-10-30T23:20:55+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Oct 30, 2020 at 4:20pm PDT</time>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ait-nouri-scores-on-debut-as-wolves-go-third-339208" hreflang="en">Ait-Nouri scores on debut as Wolves go third</a>

In 2018, Rapinoe and Bird became the first openly gay to appear on the ESPN magazine. The couple has been pretty vocal about political and social causes and have never feared to speak on public platforms on issues which isn’t spoken about much by athletes. From supporting Black-owned businesses to encouraging equal pay, the duo has raised voice on various issues.

Sue Bird is a four-time Olympic gold medallist and 11-time WNBA All-Star. Whereas Megan Rapinoe is the captain of the United States national team and lifted the Women’s World Cup in 2019.

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💍 Ring Season 💍 
 
Congrats to THE power couple on their engagement!!!<a href="https://twitter.com/S10Bird?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@S10Bird</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mPinoe?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mPinoe</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LoveWins?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LoveWins</a> <a href="https://t.co/mYioo2JOeB">pic.twitter.com/mYioo2JOeB</a>
— Seattle Storm (@seattlestorm) <a href="https://twitter.com/seattlestorm/status/1322322314478809089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Sue, who had suffered a horrific knee injury in 2019, made a sensational comeback to win her fourth WNBA title with the Seattle Storm earlier in October. Whereas, Rapinoe bagged the Ballon d’Or in 2019 while winning her second World Cup in the same year. She also won the Golden Boot and Golden Ball for her breathtaking performances.&nbsp;

“Love will always win. Congratulations, @S10Bird and @mPinoe!,” former U.S. Vice President and the Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden wrote on his Twitter, congratulating the power couple.

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Love will always win. Congratulations, <a href="https://twitter.com/S10Bird?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@S10Bird</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/mPinoe?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mPinoe</a>! <a href="https://t.co/isj9Q2R3R8">https://t.co/isj9Q2R3R8</a>
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden/status/1322347053670825984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Star footballer Megan Rapinoe and women’s basketball star Sue Bird, who met at the Rio Olympics 2016, have announced their engagement. Taking to social media platform Instagram, the duo announced that they are getting hitched.

Star footballer Megan Rapinoe and women’s basketball star Sue Bird, who met at the Rio Olympics 2016, have announced their engagement. Taking to social media platform Instagram, the duo announced that they are getting hitched. Rapinoe, a two-time World Cup winner, and Sue Bird, 11-time WNBA All-Star, have been dating since 2017 and have now gotten engaged. One of the most powerful couples in the world of sports, the pair announced their engagement with a photograph on Bird’s Instagram account on October 30. As per Reuters, Rapinoe’s agent confirmed the news as social media showered their blessings and good wishes on the couple. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sue Bird (@sbird10) on Oct 30, 2020 at 4:20pm PDT × ALSO READ: Ait-Nouri scores on debut as Wolves go third In 2018, Rapinoe and Bird became the first openly gay to appear on the ESPN magazine. The couple has been pretty vocal about political and social causes and have never feared to speak on public platforms on issues which isn’t spoken about much by athletes. From supporting Black-owned businesses to encouraging equal pay, the duo has raised voice on various issues. Sue Bird is a four-time Olympic gold medallist and 11-time WNBA All-Star. Whereas Megan Rapinoe is the captain of the United States national team and lifted the Women’s World Cup in 2019. 💍 Ring Season 💍 Congrats to THE power couple on their engagement!!!@S10Bird @mPinoe #LoveWins pic.twitter.com/mYioo2JOeB — Seattle Storm (@seattlestorm) October 30, 2020 × Sue, who had suffered a horrific knee injury in 2019, made a sensational comeback to win her fourth WNBA title with the Seattle Storm earlier in October. Whereas, Rapinoe bagged the Ballon d’Or in 2019 while winning her second World Cup in the same year. She also won the Golden Boot and Golden Ball for her breathtaking performances. “Love will always win. Congratulations, @S10Bird and @mPinoe!,” former U.S. Vice President and the Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden wrote on his Twitter, congratulating the power couple. Love will always win. Congratulations, @S10Bird and @mPinoe! https://t.co/isj9Q2R3R8 — Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) October 31, 2020 ×

World Cup winner Megan Rapinoe and Olympic Gold medallist Sue Bird get engaged

'Not enough': Athletes angered as officers cleared of criminal charges in death of Breonna Taylor

Women's World Cup star Megan Rapinoe, long an outspoken critic of President Donald Trump, says she wouldn't rule out running for America's highest office herself one day.

In excerpts from an interview with Vice TV that were released on Tuesday, Rapinoe branded Trump a "white nationalist" and said she didn't think his policies had helped Americans.

"Now, obviously, we have a white nationalist -- I think -- in the White House and the spewing of hate and the 'othering' of the rest of the country has only led to more rift between people and more despair and more anxiety and more fear going forward," Rapinoe said. "There's been no sort of path forward."

Rapinoe, who starred in the United States' 2019 World Cup triumph, said inclusion -- of racial minorities and women -- is key to progress.

She has been a vocal advocate for women's and LGBTQ rights and has joined in the demonstrations of kneeling for the US national anthem to protest racial inequality.

Asked if she would consider running for office herself, Rapinoe admitted it would be a departure.

"I'm not totally shutting the door, but it seems wild," she said.

She said her dream job would be "President, of course.

"If I'm going to do it, I want the biggest, baddest post," she said with a laugh, although she added she would "pick everyone else who's way smarter and way more qualified and way better at everything to actually do the thing.

"I'm not here being like 'I’m the smartest, I should be the president,'" she said. "I’m actually, like, 'I'm wholly unqualified for probably any position in government', but I've got that little bit of humility where I can be, like, 'You're smarter, you do this, you do this, you do this.'"

Women's World Cup star Megan Rapinoe, long an outspoken critic of President Donald Trump, says she wouldn't rule out running for America's highest office herself one day.

Women's World Cup star Megan Rapinoe, long an outspoken critic of President Donald Trump, says she wouldn't rule out running for America's highest office herself one day. In excerpts from an interview with Vice TV that were released on Tuesday, Rapinoe branded Trump a "white nationalist" and said she didn't think his policies had helped Americans. "Now, obviously, we have a white nationalist -- I think -- in the White House and the spewing of hate and the 'othering' of the rest of the country has only led to more rift between people and more despair and more anxiety and more fear going forward," Rapinoe said. "There's been no sort of path forward." Rapinoe, who starred in the United States' 2019 World Cup triumph, said inclusion -- of racial minorities and women -- is key to progress. She has been a vocal advocate for women's and LGBTQ rights and has joined in the demonstrations of kneeling for the US national anthem to protest racial inequality. Asked if she would consider running for office herself, Rapinoe admitted it would be a departure. "I'm not totally shutting the door, but it seems wild," she said. She said her dream job would be "President, of course. "If I'm going to do it, I want the biggest, baddest post," she said with a laugh, although she added she would "pick everyone else who's way smarter and way more qualified and way better at everything to actually do the thing. "I'm not here being like 'I’m the smartest, I should be the president,'" she said. "I’m actually, like, 'I'm wholly unqualified for probably any position in government', but I've got that little bit of humility where I can be, like, 'You're smarter, you do this, you do this, you do this.'"

US World Cup star Megan Rapinoe blasts Donald Trump, doesn't rule out run for office

Megan Rapinoe and Alex Morgan said the US women's national team will appeal against defeat in their equal pay lawsuit on Monday, describing the &nbsp;judge's ruling in the case as "shocking".

In a widely unexpected decision on Friday, Judge Gary Klausner rejected the US women's claim of pay discrimination, finding in favour of the United States Soccer Federation.

Although the judge said claims of gender discrimination in areas such as travel, housing and medical support could proceed to trial, the equal pay part of the lawsuit -- the central plank of the women's case -- had been dismissed.

Speaking on ABC television's Good Morning America program on Monday, Rapinoe and Morgan voiced dismay at the outcome but pledged to fight on.

"We were just shocked," Morgan said. "This decision was out of left field for us. I think for both sides it was very unexpected. We will definitely be appealing and moving forward.&nbsp;

"If anyone knows anything about the heart of this team, we are fighters and we will continue to fight together for this."

In dismissing the equal pay claim, Judge Klausner said the case was unwarranted because there was evidence the women had previously turned down an offer in the Collective Bargaining Agreement negotiations to be paid along the lines of the US men's team.

However Rapinoe challenged that part of the judge's decision.

"The men's contract was never offered to us and certainly not the same amount of money," Rapinoe said.

"I think so many women can understand what this feeling is of going into a negotiation, knowing equal pay is not on the table, knowing anywhere close to your male counterparts is not even on the table."

Rapinoe also said the fact that the women had earned more than the US men during the period where pay discrimination was alleged was also misleading.

In the period in question, the women's team played 111 games and earned $24.5 million. The men played 87 games and made $18.5 million. The men's figure however would likely have been substantially higher had they qualified for the 2018 World Cup.&nbsp;

"If we were under the men’s contract, we would be making three times more," Rapinoe said.&nbsp;

"So you can look at the total compensation. In that time that we've made just a little bit more, we've won two World Cups and we've won just about every single game that we've played in.&nbsp;

"So the rate of pay is just so different. It's just so frustrating."

The US women, who clinched back-to-back World Cup wins with victory at last year's finals in France, had been seeking back pay of $66 million under the US Equal Pay Act.

Megan Rapinoe and Alex Morgan said the US women's national team will appeal against defeat in their equal pay lawsuit on Monday, describing the judge's ruling in the case as "shocking".

Megan Rapinoe and Alex Morgan said the US women's national team will appeal against defeat in their equal pay lawsuit on Monday, describing the judge's ruling in the case as "shocking". In a widely unexpected decision on Friday, Judge Gary Klausner rejected the US women's claim of pay discrimination, finding in favour of the United States Soccer Federation. Although the judge said claims of gender discrimination in areas such as travel, housing and medical support could proceed to trial, the equal pay part of the lawsuit -- the central plank of the women's case -- had been dismissed. Speaking on ABC television's Good Morning America program on Monday, Rapinoe and Morgan voiced dismay at the outcome but pledged to fight on. "We were just shocked," Morgan said. "This decision was out of left field for us. I think for both sides it was very unexpected. We will definitely be appealing and moving forward. "If anyone knows anything about the heart of this team, we are fighters and we will continue to fight together for this." In dismissing the equal pay claim, Judge Klausner said the case was unwarranted because there was evidence the women had previously turned down an offer in the Collective Bargaining Agreement negotiations to be paid along the lines of the US men's team. However Rapinoe challenged that part of the judge's decision. "The men's contract was never offered to us and certainly not the same amount of money," Rapinoe said. "I think so many women can understand what this feeling is of going into a negotiation, knowing equal pay is not on the table, knowing anywhere close to your male counterparts is not even on the table." Rapinoe also said the fact that the women had earned more than the US men during the period where pay discrimination was alleged was also misleading. In the period in question, the women's team played 111 games and earned $24.5 million. The men played 87 games and made $18.5 million. The men's figure however would likely have been substantially higher had they qualified for the 2018 World Cup. "If we were under the men’s contract, we would be making three times more," Rapinoe said. "So you can look at the total compensation. In that time that we've made just a little bit more, we've won two World Cups and we've won just about every single game that we've played in. "So the rate of pay is just so different. It's just so frustrating." The US women, who clinched back-to-back World Cup wins with victory at last year's finals in France, had been seeking back pay of $66 million under the US Equal Pay Act.

'Shocked' US women stars to appeal equal pay defeat

Carlos Cordeiro issued an apology to the US women's national team which was not received well by soccer star and activist Megan Rapinoe.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-womens-team-fights-back-against-governing-bodys-pay-claims-254494">US women's team fights back against governing body's pay claims</a>

Cordeiro issued an apology on Wednesday after court filing disparaged female athletes and calling the women's team an 'inferior squad' to the men's team. For the record, US women's team are currently the World Cup champions whereas the men's team has not made into the quarterfinals yet.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-mens-team-slams-us-soccer-backs-equal-pay-for-women-players-280513">United States men's team slams US soccer, backs 'equal pay' for women national team</a>

After starring in a 3-1 victory over Japan in the SheBelievesCup, in the post-match interview, Rapinoe said that she was not pleased by United States Soccer Federation's (USSF) chief's apology and the federation's conduct towards the women's team.&nbsp;

“We don’t buy it….That wasn’t for us. That was for fans, media, sponsors…” Rapinoe said. “Every negotiation we’ve had, those undertones are in there that we’re lesser. Every mediation session that we had, any time we meet with them and the reason we filed this lawsuit. So for him to put that out saying sorry, presuming it’s for us, we don’t buy it. That wasn’t for us at all, that was for everybody else.”

US women's team warmed up for the fixture wearing their uniforms inside out hiding the badge of the federation.&nbsp;

USSF chief's apology came after details of his court filing were released.&nbsp;

US women's soccer team have been fighting with the US Soccer Federation since 2016, they want to get paid as much as the men's team does. The women's team are asking for $67 million as their backpay.

The American men's national team had backed the voice of Women's team for 'equal pay'.

Rapinoe has played a significant role in this dispute and is leading the demands for equality. She told the reporters ahead of the USA's SheBelieves Cup opener that she was grateful to the men's team for their support.&nbsp;

Carlos Cordeiro issued an apology to the US women's national team which was not received well by soccer star and activist Megan Rapinoe. Also read: US women's team fights back against governing body's pay claims Cordeiro issued an apology on Wednesday after court filing disparaged female athletes and calling the women's team an 'inferior squad' to the men's team.

Carlos Cordeiro issued an apology to the US women's national team which was not received well by soccer star and activist Megan Rapinoe. Also read: US women's team fights back against governing body's pay claims Cordeiro issued an apology on Wednesday after court filing disparaged female athletes and calling the women's team an 'inferior squad' to the men's team. For the record, US women's team are currently the World Cup champions whereas the men's team has not made into the quarterfinals yet. Also read: United States men's team slams US soccer, backs 'equal pay' for women national team After starring in a 3-1 victory over Japan in the SheBelievesCup, in the post-match interview, Rapinoe said that she was not pleased by United States Soccer Federation's (USSF) chief's apology and the federation's conduct towards the women's team. “We don’t buy it….That wasn’t for us. That was for fans, media, sponsors…” Rapinoe said. “Every negotiation we’ve had, those undertones are in there that we’re lesser. Every mediation session that we had, any time we meet with them and the reason we filed this lawsuit. So for him to put that out saying sorry, presuming it’s for us, we don’t buy it. That wasn’t for us at all, that was for everybody else.” US women's team warmed up for the fixture wearing their uniforms inside out hiding the badge of the federation. USSF chief's apology came after details of his court filing were released. US women's soccer team have been fighting with the US Soccer Federation since 2016, they want to get paid as much as the men's team does. The women's team are asking for $67 million as their backpay. The American men's national team had backed the voice of Women's team for 'equal pay'. Rapinoe has played a significant role in this dispute and is leading the demands for equality. She told the reporters ahead of the USA's SheBelieves Cup opener that she was grateful to the men's team for their support.

'We don’t buy it', US soccer star Megan Rapinoe on USSF chief Carlos Cordeiro's apology

The United States women's soccer team down England's women soccer team 2-0 to begin the SheBelieves Cup in style on Thursday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-mens-team-slams-us-soccer-backs-equal-pay-for-women-players-280513">United States men's team slams US soccer, backs 'equal pay' for women national team</a>

Christen Press and Carli Lloyd's second-half goal sealed the victory for the United States. The goals were struck within three minutes of each other.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
100 caps for <a href="https://twitter.com/julieertz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JulieErtz</a> ✅ 
2-0 win vs. England ✅ 
 
It was a good night for the <a href="https://twitter.com/USWNT?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USWNT</a>! <a href="https://t.co/2V3ECOIOIb">pic.twitter.com/2V3ECOIOIb</a>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-womens-team-fights-back-against-governing-bodys-pay-claims-254494">US women's team fights back against governing body's pay claims</a>

The reigning world champions continue their win-streak and take the toll to 29 games, whereas, England fail to avenge their semifinal loss in the World Cup against the US team at Lyon.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-was-much-appreciated-says-megan-rapinoe-after-men-show-solidarity-for-equal-pay-284357">'It was much appreciated', says Megan Rapinoe after men show solidarity for equal pay</a>

The victory got sweeter for the American women's soccer team as they did not start the match with their star striker Megan Rapinoe. Coach Vlatko Andonovski could afford to leave the striker until she was introduced in the 62nd minute.

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That <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USAvESP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USAvESP</a> game on Sunday is going to be 🔥. <a href="https://t.co/hVS3z2ooc0">pic.twitter.com/hVS3z2ooc0</a>
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English team's manager Phil Neville is worried as the team has won just two of their seven fixtures. The four-nation round-robin tournament champions will gear-up for their next clash against Japan.

The English side had few encouraging moments in the match but their poor defending cost them the match.

US's women soccer team is going through a dispute with the US soccer federation for 'equal pay'. Team's star striker and Ballon d'Or winner Megan Rapinoe praised the men's team (US) for supporting their cause.

The United States women's soccer team down England's women soccer team 2-0 to begin the SheBelieves Cup in style on Thursday. Also read: United States men's team slams US soccer, backs 'equal pay' for women national team Christen Press and Carli Lloyd's second-half goal sealed the victory for the United States.

The United States women's soccer team down England's women soccer team 2-0 to begin the SheBelieves Cup in style on Thursday. Also read: United States men's team slams US soccer, backs 'equal pay' for women national team Christen Press and Carli Lloyd's second-half goal sealed the victory for the United States. The goals were struck within three minutes of each other. 100 caps for @JulieErtz ✅ 2-0 win vs. England ✅ It was a good night for the @USWNT! pic.twitter.com/2V3ECOIOIb — espnW (@espnW) March 6, 2020 × Also read: US women's team fights back against governing body's pay claims The reigning world champions continue their win-streak and take the toll to 29 games, whereas, England fail to avenge their semifinal loss in the World Cup against the US team at Lyon. Also read: 'It was much appreciated', says Megan Rapinoe after men show solidarity for equal pay The victory got sweeter for the American women's soccer team as they did not start the match with their star striker Megan Rapinoe. Coach Vlatko Andonovski could afford to leave the striker until she was introduced in the 62nd minute. That #USAvESP game on Sunday is going to be 🔥. pic.twitter.com/hVS3z2ooc0 — U.S. Soccer WNT (@USWNT) March 6, 2020 × English team's manager Phil Neville is worried as the team has won just two of their seven fixtures. The four-nation round-robin tournament champions will gear-up for their next clash against Japan. The English side had few encouraging moments in the match but their poor defending cost them the match. US's women soccer team is going through a dispute with the US soccer federation for 'equal pay'. Team's star striker and Ballon d'Or winner Megan Rapinoe praised the men's team (US) for supporting their cause.

Team USA begin their SheBelieve Cup in style after beating England

On Thursday, Megan Rapinoe thanked the US men's team for showing solidarity in their fight for equal pay. She said that she is "very confident" about a favourable verdict in this matter.&nbsp;

US women's soccer team have been fighting with the US Soccer Federation since 2016, they want to get paid as much as the men's team does. The women's team are asking for $67 million as their backpay.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-womens-team-fights-back-against-governing-bodys-pay-claims-254494">US women's team fights back against governing body's pay claims</a>

The American men's national team had backed the voice of Women's team for 'equal pay'.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-mens-team-slams-us-soccer-backs-equal-pay-for-women-players-280513">United States men's team slams US soccer, backs 'equal pay' for women national team</a>

In a strong statement released on the website of the US National Soccer Team Players Association, the men squad had joined the reigning World Champions in their fight for equal pay.&nbsp;

The men's team said: "We do not want a US Soccer Federation that behaves like FIFA."

Rapinoe has played a significant role in this dispute and is leading the demands for equality. She told the reporters ahead of the USA's SheBelieves Cup opener that she was grateful to the men's team for their support.&nbsp;

Megan said: "It was much appreciated".

"(The men) have been a little light on statements before, you need to be educated if you weigh in and it seems like they took time to make the statement they wanted but I have been saying for a long time that we all have to stand together.

"They think they deserve more money too and they said that. If they are being underpaid we are likely being underpaid too so it was a nice show of support and I look forward to more solidarity between the two teams."

28 members of the US women's team has to file class-action gender discrimination against US Soccer Federation. The trial is expected to begin in May.

On Thursday, Megan Rapinoe thanked the US men's team for showing solidarity in their fight for equal pay. She said that she is "very confident" about a favourable verdict in this matter.

On Thursday, Megan Rapinoe thanked the US men's team for showing solidarity in their fight for equal pay. She said that she is "very confident" about a favourable verdict in this matter. US women's soccer team have been fighting with the US Soccer Federation since 2016, they want to get paid as much as the men's team does. The women's team are asking for $67 million as their backpay. Also read: US women's team fights back against governing body's pay claims The American men's national team had backed the voice of Women's team for 'equal pay'. Also read: United States men's team slams US soccer, backs 'equal pay' for women national team In a strong statement released on the website of the US National Soccer Team Players Association, the men squad had joined the reigning World Champions in their fight for equal pay. The men's team said: "We do not want a US Soccer Federation that behaves like FIFA." Rapinoe has played a significant role in this dispute and is leading the demands for equality. She told the reporters ahead of the USA's SheBelieves Cup opener that she was grateful to the men's team for their support. Megan said: "It was much appreciated". "(The men) have been a little light on statements before, you need to be educated if you weigh in and it seems like they took time to make the statement they wanted but I have been saying for a long time that we all have to stand together. "They think they deserve more money too and they said that. If they are being underpaid we are likely being underpaid too so it was a nice show of support and I look forward to more solidarity between the two teams." 28 members of the US women's team has to file class-action gender discrimination against US Soccer Federation. The trial is expected to begin in May.

'It was much appreciated', says Megan Rapinoe after men show solidarity for equal pay

Lionel Messi receives his sixth Ballon d'Or, Megan Rapinoe bags women's award

Lionel Messi said he hoped to carry on undimmed by age after claiming a record sixth men's Ballon d'Or award at the age of 32 in Paris on Monday, while USA World Cup superstar Megan Rapinoe took the women's prize.

Lionel Messi said he hoped to carry on undimmed by age after claiming a record sixth men's Ballon d'Or award at the age of 32 in Paris on Monday, while USA World Cup superstar Megan Rapinoe took the women's prize. Rapinoe was not at the Chatelet Theatre in the French capital, unable to make the trip back to the country where she led the USA to victory in July. However, Messi was there with his wife, Antonella Roccuzzo, and two of their children. It is Messi's first Ballon d'Or since 2015 and his sixth overall as he moves one ahead of old rival Cristiano Ronaldo. "It is 10 years since I won my first Ballon d'Or here in Paris and I remember coming here with my three brothers, I was 22 and it was all unthinkable for me what I was going through," Messi said on stage after receiving the award from last year's winner Luka Modric. "I hope I have several years left to keep enjoying my football. I am aware of the age I have and these moments are all the more enjoyable because the moment when I have to retire is getting closer and that is difficult. "All going well I'll have several years left but at the moment time seems to be flying and everything is happening very quickly. "I hope to keep enjoying my football, my family, facing my rivals and all of this life that I have." Van Dijk comes second The Barcelona number 10 won this year's prize -- organised by France Football magazine and voted for by a panel of journalists from around the world -- ahead of Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk, with Ronaldo third. It is the first time since 2010 that Ronaldo has failed to rank in the top two. Having starred in the Liverpool team that won the Champions League, Van Dijk finished second to Messi just as he did in the voting for FIFA's equivalent prize, The Best, in September. "Unfortunately there are a couple of players like him who are a bit unnatural. Six times Ballon d'Or -- you need to respect greatness as well," said Van Dijk. Van Dijk was one of four Liverpool players in the top 10, with Sadio Mane fourth, Mohamed Salah fifth and goalkeeper Alisson seventh. The latter won a new prize for the goalkeeper of the year, named after former USSR icon Lev Yashin. Messi has scored 46 goals in 54 matches so far in 2019, and netted 36 times in total in 34 La Liga matches last season as Barcelona won the title. He did not enjoy a successful Copa America with Argentina but was also the top scorer in last season's Champions League with 12 goals. As if any reminder of his brilliance were required, on Sunday he scored a wonderful late winner for Barcelona against Atletico Madrid. 'Incredible year' for Rapinoe This is just the second year that a women's Ballon d'Or -- voted for by 48 journalists -- has been awarded, with Rapinoe succeeding Norway's Ada Hegerberg. Rapinoe was the star of the Women's World Cup on, and off, the field, winning the Golden Boot for top scorer, with six goals, and Golden Ball for best player. She scored the opening goal as the USA beat the Netherlands 2-0 in the final. But the 34-year-old feminist icon made headlines with her outspoken criticism of US President Donald Trump during the tournament and has led calls for her team to be paid the same as their male counterparts. "It's been an incredible year," said Rapinoe in a recorded video message. "I want to say a huge thank you to my team-mates, the coaches, the US Soccer Federation, for all of the support to allow me to be who I am and do what I do on the field but also be the person who I am off the field." Rapinoe was one of four members of the US side that lifted the World Cup to be nominated for the prize, along with Tobin Heath, Rose Lavelle and Alex Morgan, who finished third on Monday. England's Lucy Bronze came second. Dutch defender Matthijs de Ligt, the ex-Ajax star now at Juventus, succeeded Kylian Mbappe as the winner of the Kopa Trophy for the best player aged under 21.

Messi wins sixth Ballon d'Or as Rapinoe takes women's prize

The biggest names in world football will descend on Paris on Monday for the 2019 Ballon d'Or ceremony, with Lionel Messi and USA women's World Cup superstar Megan Rapinoe tipped to leave with the honours.

The biggest names in world football will descend on Paris on Monday for the 2019 Ballon d'Or ceremony, with Lionel Messi and USA women's World Cup superstar Megan Rapinoe tipped to leave with the honours. It would be an enormous shock if Rapinoe did not depart the Chatelet Theatre with the women's prize as she returns to the country where she was the driving force on and off the field for the United States as they retained their title. The suspense surrounds the identity of the men's winner, 12 months after Croatia's Luka Modric claimed the crown thanks to his exploits in dragging his country to the World Cup final and winning the Champions League with Real Madrid. That ended a decade in which Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo had won the Ballon d'Or five times each, but the smart money now is on the Barcelona man claiming number six. There are 30 nominees in total for the prize, organised by France Football magazine and voted for by 180 journalists from around the world. The case for Van Dijk Among the names is Ronaldo, as well as several of the stars of the Liverpool side who won the Champions League, chief among them Dutch defender Virgil van Dijk. At one point he looked like the favourite, but Messi already pipped him to FIFA's The Best title in September. The 32-year-old top-scored in La Liga last season with 36 goals as Barcelona won the title. He did not have a great Copa America with Argentina, but his genius is undeniable. "If you give the Ballon d'Or to the best player of this generation then you should give it always to Lionel Messi. That's how it is," admitted Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp. "But if you give it to the best player of last season, then it was Virgil van Dijk. I don't know exactly how it will work but that is how I see it." The value of individual honours in football is debatable, and the timing unsatisfactory, coming midway through the European club season. Yet surely nobody could suggest Rapinoe would not be a deserving winner of just the second women's Ballon d'Or, an award voted for by a panel of 48 journalists. Norway's Ada Hegerberg won it in 2018 but will not retain her title after missing the World Cup. Among the stars of that tournament to be nominated are England's Lucy Bronze, Netherlands striker Vivianne Miedema, Australia's Sam Kerr and the USA trio of Alex Morgan, Rose Lavelle and Tobin Heath. However Rapinoe, the 34-year-old feminist icon and outspoken critic of US President Donald Trump, should add this honour to those of Golden Boot winner for top scorer and Golden Ball for best player at the World Cup. Even her supposed rivals seem to be rooting for her. "She does lots of things off the pitch, but I think she is the favourite to win the Ballon d'Or mainly down to her performances during the World Cup," Bronze told France Football.

Messi and Rapinoe expected to take Ballon d'Or honours

US women's national football team players pushed back in a court filing on Monday against claims by the US Soccer Federation that some members earn more than their male counterparts, as they argued for class-action status in the latest chapter of their closely-watched legal fight.

All 28 member of the US women's national football team sued the US Soccer Federation for gender discrimination in March in a lawsuit that included complaints about wages and working conditions.

Mediation between the two parties broke down in August, weeks after US Soccer's President Carlos Cordeiro said in an open letter that the organisation has paid more to the women's team than the men's in recent years.

A week ago, the organisation said it opposed the women's players bid for class-action status in their suit.

"Over the class period, the (Women's National Team) has played far more games than the (Men's National Team) and amassed a far higher win percentage, including earning two World Cup championships," the suit's plaintiffs said in Monday's court filing. "This is the only reason why the four (Women's National Team) class representatives were able to earn more total compensation than members of the (Men's National Team)."

Those four players - Megan Rapinoe, Carli Lloyd, Alex Morgan and Becky Sauerbrunn - would have earned far more under the men's team's pay rate policy, the plaintiffs argued in the filing.

A spokesman for US Soccer said members of the men's national team have the chance to earn larger bonuses, but they do not receive guaranteed money in their "pay-for-play contract structure."

"Our men and women's national teams have different pay structures, not because of gender, but because each team chose to negotiate a different compensation package with US Soccer," the spokesman said.

The US women's team successfully defended its World Cup title in July in France, defeating the Netherlands in the final. The team has four women's World Cup titles, more than any other nation.

Players from the US men's squad threw their support behind their female counterparts in July and accused US Soccer of not paying a fair share of generated revenue to national team players.

The dispute has attracted international attention, with numerous celebrities, athletes and politicians backing the women's players amid renewed conversation over pay equity in the United States.

US women's national football team players pushed back in a court filing on Monday against claims by the US Soccer Federation that some members earn more than their male counterparts, as they argued for class-action status in the latest chapter of their closely-watched legal fight.

US women's national football team players pushed back in a court filing on Monday against claims by the US Soccer Federation that some members earn more than their male counterparts, as they argued for class-action status in the latest chapter of their closely-watched legal fight. All 28 member of the US women's national football team sued the US Soccer Federation for gender discrimination in March in a lawsuit that included complaints about wages and working conditions. Mediation between the two parties broke down in August, weeks after US Soccer's President Carlos Cordeiro said in an open letter that the organisation has paid more to the women's team than the men's in recent years. A week ago, the organisation said it opposed the women's players bid for class-action status in their suit. "Over the class period, the (Women's National Team) has played far more games than the (Men's National Team) and amassed a far higher win percentage, including earning two World Cup championships," the suit's plaintiffs said in Monday's court filing. "This is the only reason why the four (Women's National Team) class representatives were able to earn more total compensation than members of the (Men's National Team)." Those four players - Megan Rapinoe, Carli Lloyd, Alex Morgan and Becky Sauerbrunn - would have earned far more under the men's team's pay rate policy, the plaintiffs argued in the filing. A spokesman for US Soccer said members of the men's national team have the chance to earn larger bonuses, but they do not receive guaranteed money in their "pay-for-play contract structure." "Our men and women's national teams have different pay structures, not because of gender, but because each team chose to negotiate a different compensation package with US Soccer," the spokesman said. The US women's team successfully defended its World Cup title in July in France, defeating the Netherlands in the final. The team has four women's World Cup titles, more than any other nation. Players from the US men's squad threw their support behind their female counterparts in July and accused US Soccer of not paying a fair share of generated revenue to national team players. The dispute has attracted international attention, with numerous celebrities, athletes and politicians backing the women's players amid renewed conversation over pay equity in the United States.

US women's team fights back against governing body's pay claims

List of winners at FIFA's The Best Awards

Lionel Messi won the FIFA Men's Player of the Year award on Monday with Megan Rapinoe bagging the women's prize to cap a historic year for the United States' World Cup icon.

Barcelona striker Messi's victory in Milan was a surprise as he edged out Virgil Van Dijk, who won the UEFA player's award last month after helping Liverpool to the Champions League last season.

Juventus's forward Cristiano Ronaldo had also been shortlisted for the award but did not attend the ceremony as he lost out to his rival in the famous La Scala opera house.

Both Messi, 32, and Van Dijk, 28, are now in the running for the coveted Ballon d'Or which will be announced on December 2.

Rapinoe beat fellow World Cup winner Alex Morgan and England's Lucy Bronze to the women's title, with US coach Jill Ellis winning women's coaching award.

The 34-year-old Rapinoe won the Golden Boot for being top scorer and the Golden Ball for the best player at the World Cup, and also became the face of the tournament for her outspoken views on US President Donald Trump.

Messi was top scorer in the Champions League last season with 12 goals before Barcelona were dumped out by Liverpool in the semi-finals, Barca throwing away a three-goal first-leg lead with a humiliating 4-0 defeat at Anfield.

The Argentine also won the European Golden Shoe after scoring 36 goals, won La Liga title with Barcelona and helped Argentina to bronze at 2019 Copa America.

Van Dijk had been bidding to become just the second defender -- after Italian Fabio Cannavaro in 2006 -- to be recognised by FIFA as the world's best player.

And he missed out on completing a treble for Liverpool with manager Jurgen Klopp winning the men's coach of the year award and Alisson Becker the goalkeeper prize.

Klopp won the Champions League with Liverpool ahead of two other Premier League coaches -- Tottenham's Mauricio Pochettino, who reached the European final, and Manchester City's Pep Guardiola.

"It is great, nobody expected this 20, 10, five, four years ago that I would be standing here," said the 52-year-old German who joined Liverpool in 2015.

"I have to say thank you to my outstanding club Liverpool FC. Those who don't love it don't have a heart.

"As a coach you can only be as good as your team. I'm really proud of being coach of such an incredible bunch of players."

Two-time women's World Cup-winning coach Ellis, beat Dutch coach Sarina Wiegman, runner-up in France 2019, and England's Phil Neville for the award.

"The World Cup really was a showcase, the world fell even more in love with the game," said 53-year-old Ellis, who will step down from the team in October.

Romanian-born Hungarian forward Daniel Zsori won the Fifa Puskas Award for the best goal, beating strikes from Messi and Juan Fernando Quintero.

The 18-year-old forward, on his debut, scored a spectacular overhead kick to win the game for his side Debrecen against Ferencvaros in stoppage time.

Lionel Messi won the FIFA Men's Player of the Year award on Monday with Megan Rapinoe bagging the women's prize to cap a historic year for the United States' World Cup icon.

Lionel Messi won the FIFA Men's Player of the Year award on Monday with Megan Rapinoe bagging the women's prize to cap a historic year for the United States' World Cup icon. Barcelona striker Messi's victory in Milan was a surprise as he edged out Virgil Van Dijk, who won the UEFA player's award last month after helping Liverpool to the Champions League last season. Juventus's forward Cristiano Ronaldo had also been shortlisted for the award but did not attend the ceremony as he lost out to his rival in the famous La Scala opera house. Both Messi, 32, and Van Dijk, 28, are now in the running for the coveted Ballon d'Or which will be announced on December 2. Rapinoe beat fellow World Cup winner Alex Morgan and England's Lucy Bronze to the women's title, with US coach Jill Ellis winning women's coaching award. The 34-year-old Rapinoe won the Golden Boot for being top scorer and the Golden Ball for the best player at the World Cup, and also became the face of the tournament for her outspoken views on US President Donald Trump. Messi was top scorer in the Champions League last season with 12 goals before Barcelona were dumped out by Liverpool in the semi-finals, Barca throwing away a three-goal first-leg lead with a humiliating 4-0 defeat at Anfield. The Argentine also won the European Golden Shoe after scoring 36 goals, won La Liga title with Barcelona and helped Argentina to bronze at 2019 Copa America. Van Dijk had been bidding to become just the second defender -- after Italian Fabio Cannavaro in 2006 -- to be recognised by FIFA as the world's best player. And he missed out on completing a treble for Liverpool with manager Jurgen Klopp winning the men's coach of the year award and Alisson Becker the goalkeeper prize. Klopp won the Champions League with Liverpool ahead of two other Premier League coaches -- Tottenham's Mauricio Pochettino, who reached the European final, and Manchester City's Pep Guardiola. "It is great, nobody expected this 20, 10, five, four years ago that I would be standing here," said the 52-year-old German who joined Liverpool in 2015. "I have to say thank you to my outstanding club Liverpool FC. Those who don't love it don't have a heart. "As a coach you can only be as good as your team. I'm really proud of being coach of such an incredible bunch of players." Two-time women's World Cup-winning coach Ellis, beat Dutch coach Sarina Wiegman, runner-up in France 2019, and England's Phil Neville for the award. "The World Cup really was a showcase, the world fell even more in love with the game," said 53-year-old Ellis, who will step down from the team in October. Romanian-born Hungarian forward Daniel Zsori won the Fifa Puskas Award for the best goal, beating strikes from Messi and Juan Fernando Quintero. The 18-year-old forward, on his debut, scored a spectacular overhead kick to win the game for his side Debrecen against Ferencvaros in stoppage time.

Messi, Rapinoe win FIFA Player of the Year awards

Amid chants of "equal pay," "USA" and streams of confetti, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/major-takeaways-from-story-packed-womens-world-cup-233968">World Cup-winning US women's soccer team</a> was feted by tens of thousands of adoring fans with a ticker tape victory&nbsp;parade&nbsp;in New York on Wednesday.

Wearing identical black T-shirts emblazoned with the words "World Champions" in gold letters, members of the US squad waved to the crowds from slow-moving open-top floats.

Player of the tournament Megan Rapinoe struck her iconic goal-scoring pose as she displayed the World Cup trophy to the cheering fans lining the&nbsp;parade&nbsp;route along Lower Manhattan's fabled "Canyon of Heroes."

Under bright sunny skies, office workers showered the players with white confetti thrown from the windows of skyscrapers lining Broadway.

New York Mayor Bill de Blasio joined the US World Cup stars on Rapinoe's float and later hosted the US team in a ceremony at City Hall to present them with the symbolic "Keys to the City."

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/megan-rapinoe-says-us-world-cup-teammates-will-snub-white-house-234588">Megan Rapinoe says US World Cup teammates will snub White House</a>

"This group is so resilient, is so tough, has such a sense of humor, is just so bad ass," Rapinoe told the crowd at City Hall. "We have pink hair and purple hair. We have tattoos, dreadlocks.

"We got white girls and black girls, and everything in between. Straight girls and gay girls," she said.

Star striker Alex Morgan also addressed the crowd.

"We have been known as America's favorite soccer team," she said.&nbsp;

"But from here on out, we'll just be known as America's team."

Players were met with chants of "equal pay" during the&nbsp;parade&nbsp;and on one float, they displayed a poster given to them by someone in the crowd which read "Parades Are Cool, Equal Pay Is Cooler."

While the team is celebrated across the country, the squad has also been held up as champions of gender equality.

The women's team is suing the US Soccer Federation to demand equal pay with their male counterparts, and fan chants of "equal pay" also cascaded from the stands at the Stade de Lyon in France after Sunday's victory over the Netherlands.

Victory tour

The&nbsp;parade, which lasted about an hour, is in line with a New York tradition that dates back more than a century.

While the honor has been bestowed on everyone from astronauts to record-breakers, soldiers and world leaders, in recent decades it has more commonly been used to celebrate sports victories by teams such as baseball's New York Yankees or the NFL's New York Giants.

Wednesday's ticker tape celebration is just the first stop on a protracted victory lap that will send the team across the United States in the coming months.

After the festivities in New York, the players will jet off to California to appear at the ESPYs, the US sports world's equivalent of the Oscars, taking place in Los Angeles later on Wednesday.

The team will then be back on the road next month to play in a five-game series of friendly international matches billed as a "Victory Tour", starting with a clash against Ireland at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California on August 3.

Also Watch: US Women's football team arrives to cheers and fans in US after winning World Cup

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One stop that looks unlikely is a trip to the White House.

The outspoken Rapinoe has been critical of President Donald Trump, saying last month that she would not accept an invitation from him to visit the White House if the United States won the World Cup.

Trump responded by tweeting that Rapinoe should "win first before she talks."

Speaking to ESPN on Tuesday, Rapinoe noted she had "held up my end of the bargain on that one" before adding that the Twitter exchange with Trump had actually helped the team in France.

She also reiterated that she would not be going to the White House, saying on CNN: "I would not go and every teammate that I've talked to explicitly about it would not go."

"I don't think anyone on the team has any interest in lending the platform that we've worked so hard to build and the things that we fight for and the way that we live our life," Rapinoe said.

"I don't think we want that to be co-opted or corrupted by this administration."

On Monday, the team returned home from France, 24 hours after defeating the Netherlands 2-0 in Sunday's final to clinch a record-extending fourth World Cup crown.

Amid chants of "equal pay," "USA" and streams of confetti, the World Cup-winning US women's soccer team was feted by tens of thousands of adoring fans with a ticker tape victory parade in New York on Wednesday.

Amid chants of "equal pay," "USA" and streams of confetti, the World Cup-winning US women's soccer team was feted by tens of thousands of adoring fans with a ticker tape victory parade in New York on Wednesday. Wearing identical black T-shirts emblazoned with the words "World Champions" in gold letters, members of the US squad waved to the crowds from slow-moving open-top floats. Player of the tournament Megan Rapinoe struck her iconic goal-scoring pose as she displayed the World Cup trophy to the cheering fans lining the parade route along Lower Manhattan's fabled "Canyon of Heroes." Under bright sunny skies, office workers showered the players with white confetti thrown from the windows of skyscrapers lining Broadway. New York Mayor Bill de Blasio joined the US World Cup stars on Rapinoe's float and later hosted the US team in a ceremony at City Hall to present them with the symbolic "Keys to the City." Also Read: Megan Rapinoe says US World Cup teammates will snub White House "This group is so resilient, is so tough, has such a sense of humor, is just so bad ass," Rapinoe told the crowd at City Hall. "We have pink hair and purple hair. We have tattoos, dreadlocks. "We got white girls and black girls, and everything in between. Straight girls and gay girls," she said. Star striker Alex Morgan also addressed the crowd. "We have been known as America's favorite soccer team," she said. "But from here on out, we'll just be known as America's team." Players were met with chants of "equal pay" during the parade and on one float, they displayed a poster given to them by someone in the crowd which read "Parades Are Cool, Equal Pay Is Cooler." While the team is celebrated across the country, the squad has also been held up as champions of gender equality. The women's team is suing the US Soccer Federation to demand equal pay with their male counterparts, and fan chants of "equal pay" also cascaded from the stands at the Stade de Lyon in France after Sunday's victory over the Netherlands. Victory tour The parade, which lasted about an hour, is in line with a New York tradition that dates back more than a century. While the honor has been bestowed on everyone from astronauts to record-breakers, soldiers and world leaders, in recent decades it has more commonly been used to celebrate sports victories by teams such as baseball's New York Yankees or the NFL's New York Giants. Wednesday's ticker tape celebration is just the first stop on a protracted victory lap that will send the team across the United States in the coming months. After the festivities in New York, the players will jet off to California to appear at the ESPYs, the US sports world's equivalent of the Oscars, taking place in Los Angeles later on Wednesday. The team will then be back on the road next month to play in a five-game series of friendly international matches billed as a "Victory Tour", starting with a clash against Ireland at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California on August 3. Also Watch: US Women's football team arrives to cheers and fans in US after winning World Cup × One stop that looks unlikely is a trip to the White House. The outspoken Rapinoe has been critical of President Donald Trump, saying last month that she would not accept an invitation from him to visit the White House if the United States won the World Cup. Trump responded by tweeting that Rapinoe should "win first before she talks." Speaking to ESPN on Tuesday, Rapinoe noted she had "held up my end of the bargain on that one" before adding that the Twitter exchange with Trump had actually helped the team in France. She also reiterated that she would not be going to the White House, saying on CNN: "I would not go and every teammate that I've talked to explicitly about it would not go." "I don't think anyone on the team has any interest in lending the platform that we've worked so hard to build and the things that we fight for and the way that we live our life," Rapinoe said. "I don't think we want that to be co-opted or corrupted by this administration." On Monday, the team returned home from France, 24 hours after defeating the Netherlands 2-0 in Sunday's final to clinch a record-extending fourth World Cup crown.

US World Cup winners feted with confetti, chants of 'equal pay'

Star striker Megan Rapinoe said Tuesday she does not think the United States' <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/major-takeaways-from-story-packed-womens-world-cup-233968">Women's World Cup-winning team</a> would accept an invitation from President Donald Trump to visit the White House.

"I would not go and every teammate that I've talked to explicitly about it would not go," Rapinoe said on CNN's "Anderson Cooper 360."

"I don't think anyone on the team has any interest in lending the platform that we've worked so hard to build and the things that we fight for and the way that we live our life, I don't think we want that to be co-opted or corrupted by this administration," she said.

Rapinoe, one of several gay players on the team, also took aim at Trump's "Make America Great Again" slogan, saying the president is looking back to a time that "was not great for everyone."

"I would say that your message is excluding people. You're excluding me. You're excluding people that look like me. You're excluding people of color," the footballer said when asked what message she had for Trump.

"I think that you're harking back to an era that was not great for everyone. It might have been great for a few people and maybe America is great for a few people right now, but it's not great for enough Americans in this world," she said.

Watch: US Women's football team arrives to cheers and fans in US after winning World Cup

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The US defeated the Netherlands 2-0 on a penalty by Rapinoe and a strike by Rose Lavelle in the World Cup final on Sunday in Lyon.

Rapinoe had vowed prior to the victory to stay home if Trump invited the team to Washington.

The president responded on Twitter that "Megan should never disrespect our Country, the White House, or our Flag, especially since so much has been done for her &amp; the team."

Championship US sports teams are traditionally honored with an invitation to the White House, though Trump has at times revoked invitations after team members criticized him.&nbsp;

Among the teams that have declined the offer have been pro basketball's Golden State Warriors and last year's Super Bowl winners, the Philadelphia Eagles of the National Football League (NFL).

Star striker Megan Rapinoe said Tuesday she does not think the United States' Women's World Cup-winning team would accept an invitation from President Donald Trump to visit the White House.

Star striker Megan Rapinoe said Tuesday she does not think the United States' Women's World Cup-winning team would accept an invitation from President Donald Trump to visit the White House. "I would not go and every teammate that I've talked to explicitly about it would not go," Rapinoe said on CNN's "Anderson Cooper 360." "I don't think anyone on the team has any interest in lending the platform that we've worked so hard to build and the things that we fight for and the way that we live our life, I don't think we want that to be co-opted or corrupted by this administration," she said. Rapinoe, one of several gay players on the team, also took aim at Trump's "Make America Great Again" slogan, saying the president is looking back to a time that "was not great for everyone." "I would say that your message is excluding people. You're excluding me. You're excluding people that look like me. You're excluding people of color," the footballer said when asked what message she had for Trump. "I think that you're harking back to an era that was not great for everyone. It might have been great for a few people and maybe America is great for a few people right now, but it's not great for enough Americans in this world," she said. Watch: US Women's football team arrives to cheers and fans in US after winning World Cup × The US defeated the Netherlands 2-0 on a penalty by Rapinoe and a strike by Rose Lavelle in the World Cup final on Sunday in Lyon. Rapinoe had vowed prior to the victory to stay home if Trump invited the team to Washington. The president responded on Twitter that "Megan should never disrespect our Country, the White House, or our Flag, especially since so much has been done for her & the team." Championship US sports teams are traditionally honored with an invitation to the White House, though Trump has at times revoked invitations after team members criticized him. Among the teams that have declined the offer have been pro basketball's Golden State Warriors and last year's Super Bowl winners, the Philadelphia Eagles of the National Football League (NFL).

Megan Rapinoe says US World Cup teammates will snub White House

US President Donald Trump praised the women's national soccer team in the wake of their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/usa-win-womens-world-cup-after-beating-netherlands-2-0-in-final-233834">World Cup triumph on Sunday</a> and said he would look into inviting them to the White House, just days after a spat with the captain.

"Congratulations to the US Women's Soccer Team on winning the World Cup! Great and exciting play. America is proud of you all!" tweeted Trump, who had exchanged barbs with player of the tournament Megan Rapinoe during the finals in France.

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Congratulations to the U.S. Women’s Soccer Team on winning the World Cup! Great and exciting play. America is proud of you all!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1147946170293071872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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After Rapinoe, who led her side to victory on Sunday, told a reporter last month she would not go to the White House if the team were invited, Trump fired off a series of tweets saying: "Megan should WIN first before she TALKS! Finish the job!..."

"Megan should never disrespect our Country, the White House, or our Flag, especially since so much has been done for her &amp; the team. Be proud of the Flag that you wear. The USA is doing GREAT!"

He went on to promise a White House invitation to the team "win or lose."

However, when asked by reporters on Sunday if Trump would invite the team to the White House, he said, "We haven't really thought about it. We will look at that."

English-born US&nbsp;national team coach Jill Ellis said she would not bet on an invite.

The United States duly claimed their fourth World Cup title with a 2-0 victory over the Netherlands in Lyon, with goals from Rapinoe and Rose Lavelle.

Former US presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton also tweeted their congratulations, along with numerous other politicians, athletes and celebrities.

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Yes! Fourth star. Back to back. Congrats to the record breakers on the <a href="https://twitter.com/USWNT?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USWNT</a>, an incredible team that’s always pushing themselves—and the rest of us—to be even better. Love this team. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OneNationOneTeam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OneNationOneTeam</a>
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) <a href="https://twitter.com/BarackObama/status/1147918213952360448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Trump also waded into the female athlete pay debate, saying that he "would like to see" women paid as much as their male counterparts, but noted that further study was needed.

Rapinoe on Saturday took aim at world soccer's governing body FIFA over a sizeable gap in the prize money offered to women's World cup champions compared to male winners.

US President Donald Trump praised the women's national soccer team in the wake of their World Cup triumph on Sunday and said he would look into inviting them to the White House, just days after a spat with the captain.

US President Donald Trump praised the women's national soccer team in the wake of their World Cup triumph on Sunday and said he would look into inviting them to the White House, just days after a spat with the captain. "Congratulations to the US Women's Soccer Team on winning the World Cup! Great and exciting play. America is proud of you all!" tweeted Trump, who had exchanged barbs with player of the tournament Megan Rapinoe during the finals in France. Congratulations to the U.S. Women’s Soccer Team on winning the World Cup! Great and exciting play. America is proud of you all! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 7, 2019 × After Rapinoe, who led her side to victory on Sunday, told a reporter last month she would not go to the White House if the team were invited, Trump fired off a series of tweets saying: "Megan should WIN first before she TALKS! Finish the job!..." "Megan should never disrespect our Country, the White House, or our Flag, especially since so much has been done for her & the team. Be proud of the Flag that you wear. The USA is doing GREAT!" He went on to promise a White House invitation to the team "win or lose." However, when asked by reporters on Sunday if Trump would invite the team to the White House, he said, "We haven't really thought about it. We will look at that." English-born US national team coach Jill Ellis said she would not bet on an invite. The United States duly claimed their fourth World Cup title with a 2-0 victory over the Netherlands in Lyon, with goals from Rapinoe and Rose Lavelle. Former US presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton also tweeted their congratulations, along with numerous other politicians, athletes and celebrities. Yes! Fourth star. Back to back. Congrats to the record breakers on the @USWNT, an incredible team that’s always pushing themselves—and the rest of us—to be even better. Love this team. #OneNationOneTeam — Barack Obama (@BarackObama) July 7, 2019 × Trump also waded into the female athlete pay debate, saying that he "would like to see" women paid as much as their male counterparts, but noted that further study was needed. Rapinoe on Saturday took aim at world soccer's governing body FIFA over a sizeable gap in the prize money offered to women's World cup champions compared to male winners.

After spat with soccer star Rapinoe, Trump may invite US women's World Cup winning team to White House

The women footballers of United States might have <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/usa-win-womens-world-cup-after-beating-netherlands-2-0-in-final-233834">won the World Cup</a> for a record fourth time but their off-field fight for pay equity continues.&nbsp;

Throughout the tournament, fans demanded equal pay for the players with some of them even marching to stadiums with banners displaying "equal play".&nbsp;

They even booed FIFA chief Gianni Infantino and French president Emmanuel Macron during the prize distribution ceremony after the final and gave a hero-like reception to the player of the match, co-captain Megan Rapinoe.&nbsp;

Some US websites reported that more than 50 members of Congress wrote to the national federation a few months ago saying that female football players receive a base salary of about $30,000 less than their male counterparts.&nbsp;

They also mentioned that they earn less bonus money for making it to the World Cup.&nbsp;

Amid a growing outcry over the pay disparity between the men's and women's players, Infantino said that he wants to expand the field of teams for the next World Cup in 2023 from 24 to 32 and double the prize money to $60 million. But so far he has not said anything about increasing the salary of women players.&nbsp;

The US women's football team salary depends on how well the squad does in the World Cup and few sponsors also pay according to the performance.&nbsp;

Ahead of the World Cup, Australia made a landmark decision to raise the women players’ salaries. This will see professional female footballers in the country earning the same minimum wage as their male counterparts. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Under a new collective bargaining agreement unveiled, the base annual pay for players in the W-League was hiked 33 per cent to Aus $16,344 (US$11,393).

The women footballers of United States might have won the World Cup for a record fourth time but their off-field fight for pay equity continues. Throughout the tournament, fans demanded equal pay for the players with some of them even marching to stadiums with banners displaying "equal play".

The women footballers of United States might have won the World Cup for a record fourth time but their off-field fight for pay equity continues. Throughout the tournament, fans demanded equal pay for the players with some of them even marching to stadiums with banners displaying "equal play". They even booed FIFA chief Gianni Infantino and French president Emmanuel Macron during the prize distribution ceremony after the final and gave a hero-like reception to the player of the match, co-captain Megan Rapinoe. Some US websites reported that more than 50 members of Congress wrote to the national federation a few months ago saying that female football players receive a base salary of about $30,000 less than their male counterparts. They also mentioned that they earn less bonus money for making it to the World Cup. Amid a growing outcry over the pay disparity between the men's and women's players, Infantino said that he wants to expand the field of teams for the next World Cup in 2023 from 24 to 32 and double the prize money to $60 million. But so far he has not said anything about increasing the salary of women players. The US women's football team salary depends on how well the squad does in the World Cup and few sponsors also pay according to the performance. Ahead of the World Cup, Australia made a landmark decision to raise the women players’ salaries. This will see professional female footballers in the country earning the same minimum wage as their male counterparts. Under a new collective bargaining agreement unveiled, the base annual pay for players in the W-League was hiked 33 per cent to Aus $16,344 (US$11,393).

US women footballers win World Cup battle, but still fighting for ‘equal pay’

Major takeaways from story-packed women's World Cup

The United States retained the women's World Cup on Sunday as a Megan Rapinoe penalty and a superb Rose Lavelle strike gave the holders a 2-0 victory over a battling Netherlands side in Lyon.

Having been kept at bay by the brilliant Dutch goalkeeper Sari van Veenendaal throughout the first half, the USA finally went ahead just after the hour as Rapinoe stroked home from 12 yards to end the tournament as joint top scorer on six goals.

There was an air of inevitability about the pink-haired 34-year-old, the star of this World Cup on and off the field, putting the USA ahead.

It also seemed inevitable that the breakthrough goal here should come from a VAR-awarded penalty, with French referee Stephanie Frappart initially giving a corner before pointing to the spot following a review.

The whippet-like Lavelle, another stand-out performer over the last month, got the second goal in the 69th minute, killing off Dutch hopes of a comeback.

The victory underlines the USA's status as the dominant force in international women's football as they claim the World Cup for the fourth time in eight editions.

They were already the first team to appear in three consecutive finals, and coach Jill Ellis becomes the first coach to win back-to-back World Cups in the men's or women's game since Italy's Vittorio Pozzo in the 1930s.

The USA had been the only non-European team to make it to the quarter-finals here, but they had already ended the hopes of the hosts and England before denying the Dutch a dream double success, two years after they won Euro 2017 on home soil.

Whether the Americans can continue this domination on to the next World Cup remains to be seen, not least because Rapinoe is already in the twilight years of her career.

She was brought back into the starting line-up here by Ellis having sat out the victory over England in the last four due to a hamstring problem.

Christen Press made way but came on for the closing stages, as Rapinoe went off to a loud ovation from the massed ranks of USA fans.

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⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 
 
Congrats, <a href="https://twitter.com/USWNT?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USWNT</a>! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LaGrandeFinale?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LaGrandeFinale</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USANED?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USANED</a>🇺🇸🇳🇱 <a href="https://t.co/YgrovxrBAa">pic.twitter.com/YgrovxrBAa</a>
— FIFA Women's World Cup (@FIFAWWC) <a href="https://twitter.com/FIFAWWC/status/1147911900774182912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Goalkeeping heroics in vain

At a tournament which has showcased the improving standards of goalkeeping in the women's game, the excellent Van Veenendaal prevented the USA from winning by a greater margin.

The 29-year-old, who has spent the last four years at Arsenal, had already excelled in her team's win over Sweden in the semi-finals.

Here, she allowed her team to withstand an onslaught from the holders towards half-time, saving well from Julie Ertz and bettering that by producing two superb stops in quick succession in the 38th minute.

Both American chances came from crosses from the left by Rapinoe. First Van Veenendaal stopped a Samantha Mewis header, and then she turned the ball onto the post when Alex Morgan diverted Rapinoe's low centre towards goal.

Morgan was thwarted again moments later as she tried her luck from 20 yards, and the European champions held out until the interval.

The USA had scored no later than the 12th minute in all of their prior matches at this World Cup, but the Dutch, crucially, offered little going forward at the other end.

Still, it was 61 minutes before the holders went ahead.

The referee gave a corner when Stefanie van der Gragt challenged Morgan in the area, but changed her mind upon seeing the images. Rapinoe stroked in the first penalty scored in a women's World Cup final to claim a share of the golden boot with Morgan and England's Ellen White.

The Netherlands tried to regain their composure, but there was nothing they could do to stop Lavelle's piercing run towards the box midway through the second half.

She dropped her shoulder to set up the shooting opportunity, and fired in low from 18 yards. Van Veenendaal then saved from Morgan and Dunn to keep the score down, but the title was the USA's again.

The United States retained the women's World Cup on Sunday as a Megan Rapinoe penalty and a superb Rose Lavelle strike gave the holders a 2-0 victory over a battling Netherlands side in Lyon.

The United States retained the women's World Cup on Sunday as a Megan Rapinoe penalty and a superb Rose Lavelle strike gave the holders a 2-0 victory over a battling Netherlands side in Lyon. Having been kept at bay by the brilliant Dutch goalkeeper Sari van Veenendaal throughout the first half, the USA finally went ahead just after the hour as Rapinoe stroked home from 12 yards to end the tournament as joint top scorer on six goals. There was an air of inevitability about the pink-haired 34-year-old, the star of this World Cup on and off the field, putting the USA ahead. It also seemed inevitable that the breakthrough goal here should come from a VAR-awarded penalty, with French referee Stephanie Frappart initially giving a corner before pointing to the spot following a review. The whippet-like Lavelle, another stand-out performer over the last month, got the second goal in the 69th minute, killing off Dutch hopes of a comeback. The victory underlines the USA's status as the dominant force in international women's football as they claim the World Cup for the fourth time in eight editions. They were already the first team to appear in three consecutive finals, and coach Jill Ellis becomes the first coach to win back-to-back World Cups in the men's or women's game since Italy's Vittorio Pozzo in the 1930s. The USA had been the only non-European team to make it to the quarter-finals here, but they had already ended the hopes of the hosts and England before denying the Dutch a dream double success, two years after they won Euro 2017 on home soil. Whether the Americans can continue this domination on to the next World Cup remains to be seen, not least because Rapinoe is already in the twilight years of her career. She was brought back into the starting line-up here by Ellis having sat out the victory over England in the last four due to a hamstring problem. Christen Press made way but came on for the closing stages, as Rapinoe went off to a loud ovation from the massed ranks of USA fans. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Congrats, @USWNT! #LaGrandeFinale | #USANED🇺🇸🇳🇱 pic.twitter.com/YgrovxrBAa — FIFA Women's World Cup (@FIFAWWC) July 7, 2019 × Goalkeeping heroics in vain At a tournament which has showcased the improving standards of goalkeeping in the women's game, the excellent Van Veenendaal prevented the USA from winning by a greater margin. The 29-year-old, who has spent the last four years at Arsenal, had already excelled in her team's win over Sweden in the semi-finals. Here, she allowed her team to withstand an onslaught from the holders towards half-time, saving well from Julie Ertz and bettering that by producing two superb stops in quick succession in the 38th minute. Both American chances came from crosses from the left by Rapinoe. First Van Veenendaal stopped a Samantha Mewis header, and then she turned the ball onto the post when Alex Morgan diverted Rapinoe's low centre towards goal. Morgan was thwarted again moments later as she tried her luck from 20 yards, and the European champions held out until the interval. The USA had scored no later than the 12th minute in all of their prior matches at this World Cup, but the Dutch, crucially, offered little going forward at the other end. Still, it was 61 minutes before the holders went ahead. The referee gave a corner when Stefanie van der Gragt challenged Morgan in the area, but changed her mind upon seeing the images. Rapinoe stroked in the first penalty scored in a women's World Cup final to claim a share of the golden boot with Morgan and England's Ellen White. The Netherlands tried to regain their composure, but there was nothing they could do to stop Lavelle's piercing run towards the box midway through the second half. She dropped her shoulder to set up the shooting opportunity, and fired in low from 18 yards. Van Veenendaal then saved from Morgan and Dunn to keep the score down, but the title was the USA's again.

USA win women's World Cup after beating Netherlands 2-0 in final

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