Why so serious? Megan Rapinoe reveals reason for ‘wry laugh’ after missing penalty kick which caused US' ouster from WC

Megan Rapinoe has broken her silence after being trolled and questioned for the 'bizarre laugh' after missing penalty kick during penalty shoot-out against Sweden in the round of 16 of FIFA Women's World Cup. Rapinoe's missed penalty costed the United States heavily as they lost the match 4-5 to Sweden on penalties. With the loss, two-time defending champions the US women's team were also ousted from the tournament. It was for the first time that United States couldn't reach the semi-final in all of their appearances at the tournament.'

In an interview with Fox Sports, Rapinoe revealed the reason behind her 'wry laugh' after missing the penalty kick.

“That’s like a sick, sick joke. I’ve never hit it over, when I miss they are saved. That’s why I had that smile on my face,” said Rapinoe as quoted by New York Post.

“I’m like, ‘You’ve got to be f–king kidding me.’ I’m going to miss a penalty?’ Honestly, I can’t remember the last time I missed,” she added.

“For me, personally, I’m just like this is dark comedy. I missed a penalty. This is the balance to the beautiful side of the game. I think it can be cruel and just not our day,” said Rapinoe.

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Rapinoe's tryst with controversies

Notably, besides her amazing gameplay, Rapinoe is also known for her political activism and taking a stand for social reforms.

Winner of two World Cup titles in 2015 and 2019, Rapinoe retired as per her prior announcement, after US' exit from the ongoing 2023 World Cup.

After their shocking exit, the US women's team has drawn the ire of millions of fans and celebrities including former US President Donald Trump. Trump launched a tirade against the team and flayed them for their wokeness. The team's players had invited controversy after some of them didn't sing along the national anthem when it was played before their group stage match against Vietnam at the ongoing World Cup.