Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe Announce Separation After a Decade Together
End of an Era for Two Sports Icons
In a heartfelt announcement on Instagram, two prominent figures in American sports, Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe, revealed their decision to part ways after ten years as a couple. They expressed, "There really is no smooth or easy way to share this news. After a lot of thought, we've made the decision to separate as a couple. This hasn't been an easy decision, but it's one we've made together, with so much love, respect, and care for each other."
Profiles of the Athletes
Sue Bird, aged 45, is celebrated as one of the greatest players in WNBA history, having spent her entire 19-season career with the Seattle Storm, where she secured four WNBA championships. Additionally, she earned five Olympic gold medals with the US women's national basketball team. A University of Connecticut alumna, Bird was the first overall pick in the 2002 WNBA Draft and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame last year. Currently, she holds the position of managing director for the US women's national basketball team.
Megan Rapinoe, 40, is renowned for her achievements in soccer, being a key player in the US women's national team that won the FIFA Women's World Cup in 2015 and 2019, along with an Olympic gold medal from the 2012 London Games. Bird concluded her basketball career after the 2022 WNBA season, while Rapinoe retired from the NWSL following the 2023 season.
Reflecting on Their Journey
In their joint Instagram post, Bird and Rapinoe reminisced about their shared experiences over the past decade, highlighting both significant milestones and the quieter moments that often go unnoticed. They stated, "We've shared a whole life over the last decade, through big moments and in quiet ones, and that is something we'll always carry with us. We are so grateful for this incredible community that has held us up, welcomed us in, and supported us exactly as we are."
Future of Their Podcast
Aside from their personal relationship, Bird and Rapinoe also collaborated professionally, most notably through their podcast titled "A Touch More." In their announcement, they addressed the future of this project, saying, "The conversations, the laughter, the connection, it means more than we can put into words. While this chapter of doing the podcast together is ending, what we've built with you isn't."