Rapinoe has had an extensive football career, so it's no surprise that she's had her fair share of injuries. She's had to endure three torn anterior cruciate ligaments (ACLs) ialone. The first time was in 2006 while playing football for the University of Portland her sophomore year, and the following season, she tore the ACL in left knee once again. Then, in December 2015, she tore her right ACL while playing for the USWNT.
Following her first two injuries, Rapinoe said she was actually grateful for the experience. "It really gave me a different perspective," she explained to the US Football official website in March 2009. "Before, everything was going how it was supposed to be and I wasn't really appreciative of what I was doing and what it took to be there. The injury grounded me in a lot of different ways. The rehab process makes you stronger on all fronts, mentally and physically. I feel stronger and a better person for it. I would never wish it on anyone, but I don't wish I could take it back."