- The Washington Times - Wednesday, June 26, 2019

President Trump blasted co-captain Megan Rapinoe of the U.S. women’s soccer team on Wednesday after a months-old video was posted online by Eight by Eight magazine in which she said she wasn’t going to the “f——— White House” if the Americans win the World Cup.

The U.S. women have reached the final eight of the tournament and play host France in a quarterfinal match on Friday.

Rapinoe also drew the ire of the president for protesting the national anthem by not singing or putting her hand over her heart.

Trump tweeted: “Women’s soccer player, @mPinoe, just stated that she is “not going to the F … ing White House if we win.” Other than the NBA, which now refuses to call owners, owners (please explain that I just got Criminal Justice Reform passed, Black unemployment is at the lowest level in our Country’s history, and the poverty index is also best number EVER), leagues and teams love coming to the White House.”

And: “I am a big fan of the American Team, and Women’s Soccer, but Megan should WIN first before she TALKS! Finish the job! We haven’t yet invited Megan or the team, but I am now inviting the TEAM, win or lose,” he wrote.

“Megan should never disrespect our Country, the White House, or our Flag, especially since so much has been done for her & the team. Be proud of the Flag that you wear. The USA is doing GREAT,” he tweeted.

Rapinoe’s teammate, D.C.-area native Ali Krieger, said she would skip any White House visit, too.

“In regards to the ‘President’s’ tweet today, I know women who you cannot control or grope anger you, but I stand by (Rapinoe) & will sit this one out as well,” Krieger tweeted.

Trump’s tweets came two days after an interview with The Hill in which he said it wasn’t appropriate for Rapinoe to protest during the national anthem.

Rapinoe started kneeling during the anthem in 2016 to show solidarity with former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick, who did it before NFL games to protest social and racial injustice. But the United States Soccer Federation then adopted a policy that requires players to stand. 

Now she stands, but she has been criticized for not singing and putting her hand over her heart like other players.

Rapinoe, who is gay, has frequently spoken out about politics and has criticized the Trump administration and its policies in the past.

Trump has used Twitter to criticize athletes who disagree with him, including Kaepernick and LeBron James.

Based in part on wire service reports.

• Bailey Vogt can be reached at bvogt@washingtontimes.com.

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