Megan Rapinoe maintained her outspoken nature after inspiring the United States past France by insisting: “You can’t win a championship without gays”.
The USWNT forward hit a double in the 2-1 victory over the hosts, taking her level with teammate Alex Morgan and England star Ellen White on five as the top scorers in the Women’s World Cup.
“Go gays!” Rapinoe remarked after the win, with the tournament coinciding with Pride month, providing her with extra satisfaction after scoring.
She said: “You can’t win a championship without gays on your team – it’s never been done before, ever. That’s science, right there!
“I’m motivated by people who like me, who are fighting for the same things.
“I take more energy from that than from trying to prove anyone wrong. That’s draining on yourself.
“But for me, to be gay and fabulous, during Pride month at the World Cup, is nice.”
Rapinoe has created headlines in France after her row with President Donald Trump on social media, in which she rejected the possibility of visiting the White House should the invitation arrive.
Trump responded by accusing her of being disrespect and urging her to “win first before she talks”.
“We didn’t have the best night on the ball but defensively, the willingness and the discipline to do what we did was impressive,” Rapinoe added when discussing the performance against the French.
“We were ruthless in our chances. Moving on to the next round, that’s really all that matters.”
