Megan Rapinoe, the former U.S. women's national soccer team star, has shared a deeply personal loss with her fans. During a recent episode of her podcast "A Touch More," Rapinoe opened up about the death of her half-brother Michael, who passed away in 2025 after a long struggle with alcoholism.
In a conversation with fellow USWNT legend Abby Wambach, who lost her own brother Peter in 2023, Rapinoe spoke candidly about the pain of losing a sibling. "I went home last year after my older brother Michael died. He had a long battle with alcoholism…it was sad," Rapinoe said, as reported by the New York Post.
Rapinoe reflected on the nature of addiction, drawing parallels to her own life. "I see the obsession and compulsion and addiction in myself and in him too. It's like you're searching for something," she explained. "And I was thinking so much while I was home, like, 'Wow, I can't remember the last time I was home for this long, not for a holiday or wedding or something.'"
The Rapinoe family has faced significant adversity over the years. In a 2019 interview with ESPN, Rapinoe discussed another brother, Brian, who struggled with drug addiction and spent time in solitary confinement at the Vista Detention Facility in San Diego County. She spoke about his potential, saying, "My brother is special. He has so much to offer. It would be such a shame if he left this world with nothing but prison sentences behind him. To be able to have him out, and to play for him, and to have him healthy, with this different perspective that he has now: This is like the best thing ever."
Rapinoe's willingness to share these struggles resonates with many fans who have faced similar losses. The soccer community has rallied around her, offering support during this difficult time. Her openness about addiction and grief adds a human dimension to her legacy as an athlete and activist.
This isn't the first time a sports figure has dealt with the loss of a sibling. In a similar vein, Jalen Brunson recently revealed the death of a close friend after a dramatic playoff comeback, showing how personal tragedies often intersect with athletic careers.
Rapinoe's podcast has become a platform for honest conversations about life beyond soccer. Her discussion with Wambach touched on the importance of family and the lasting impact of loss. For Rapinoe, the journey home after Michael's death was a stark reminder of time passed and connections missed.
As fans continue to send their thoughts, Rapinoe's story underscores the challenges many families face with addiction. Her courage in sharing this personal chapter offers solace to others navigating similar pain. The soccer world stands with her, honoring the memory of Michael while celebrating Rapinoe's strength.
