Signing off in style, Megan Rapinoe played her last game for the US Women’s National Team, lining up for the friendly against South Africa in a specially-produced pair of Air Zoom Mercurial Vapor XV’s from Nike.
Few players in world football can boast the impact on the game both on and off the pitch of Megan Rapinoe; she’s been there, done that, won the trophy, got the t-shirt, and has helped move the women’s game forward into progressive new spaces. She’s been a feature for the USWNT for 17 years, during which time she’s won 203 caps, two World Cups and an Olympic gold medal, and last night she brought the curtain down on her glittering international career. And as a fitting tribute for the occasion, Nike supplied the midfielder with a special pair of customised Air Zoom Mercurial Vapor XV, which, of course, Rapinoe produced an assist in.
The boots see a white base with red and blue accents, making up the colours of the national flag, while silver gives the design a fitting final flourish. The red-bordered Swoosh and AIR graphic that rides down each side of the boot both feature stars within, while “200” features on the lateral side of the heel, acknowledging Rapinoe’s international caps. The Swoosh also appears in reverse, a nod to the disruptive influence that has been a hallmark of numerous Nike-backed stars through history. Her number 15 is also referenced, taking up position on the tongue area, below the red laces. And as a final sign off, the word “RAPINOE” appears on the heel in silver, riding on top of a red stripe.
No official word on whether these will be available in a wider retail, although it's unlikely.
Shop Nike Mercurial Vapor boots at prodirectsport.com/soccer
