If you're a fan of women's sports, you've undoubtedly heard of Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe. These two athletes are among the most accomplished in their respective sports, with Bird winning four WNBA championships and Rapinoe leading the United States Women's National Soccer Team to World Cup victory twice.
The Beginning of a Relationship
It was a chance meeting at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro that brought Bird and Rapinoe together. Both were competing for Team USA, and they quickly hit it off. They started dating soon after and have been together ever since.
Their relationship has been celebrated by many in the LGBTQ+ community, as both women are openly gay and have been outspoken advocates for LGBTQ+ rights. They've used their platform as world-class athletes to bring attention to important issues and have been praised for their activism.
A Clash with President Trump
While Bird and Rapinoe's relationship has been a source of joy for many, it's also put them at odds with the current President of the United States, Donald Trump. Both women have been critical of Trump and his policies, particularly when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights and social justice issues.
Rapinoe, in particular, has been vocal in her opposition to Trump. In 2019, she famously said that she wouldn't visit the White House if the USWNT won the World Cup. Trump responded on Twitter, telling Rapinoe to "WIN first before she TALKS!"
A Response from Bird
After Trump's tweet, Bird wrote an op-ed for The Players' Tribune in support of Rapinoe. In it, she called out Trump's "hate-filled Twitter spree" and praised Rapinoe for standing up for what she believes in.
Bird also wrote about her own experiences with discrimination and how they've shaped her perspective. She talked about the importance of using one's platform to speak out on important issues, even if it's not popular or easy to do so.
A Target for Criticism
Since speaking out against Trump, both Bird and Rapinoe have become targets for criticism from his supporters. They've received hate mail and online harassment, with some people even threatening violence.
Despite this, both women have continued to be vocal in their opposition to Trump and his policies. They've used their platform to raise awareness about important issues and inspire others to do the same.
A Complicated Relationship
The relationship between Bird, Rapinoe, and Trump is a complicated one. On one hand, you have two world-class athletes who have been celebrated for their accomplishments and their activism. On the other hand, you have a President who has been criticized for his policies and his rhetoric.
Despite the tension between them, Bird and Rapinoe have continued to thrive both on and off the field. They've used their relationship to inspire others and make a positive impact in the world. And while they may not have the support of the President, they have the support of millions of fans around the world.