Trump Blasts USWNT for 'Woke Mindset' as Shocking World Cup Exit Ignites Feud with Rapinoe

 Former US President Donald Trump criticized the US Women's National Team (USWNT) after their shocking exit from the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup. The team lost 4-5 to Sweden on penalties in the round of 16, marking their earliest exit in history.

Trump took to his media platform, Truth Social, to blame the team's woke mindset for their poor performance. He accused the players of being openly hostile to America and claimed that no other country behaved in such a manner.

Trump specifically targeted Megan Rapinoe, who missed a crucial penalty kick during the match. Trump's criticism of the team comes as no surprise, as some players had declined his invitation to the White House after their 2019 World Cup win.

Meanwhile, President Joe Biden praised the team, stating that they have made the country proud. The USWNT's early elimination from the World Cup reignited the longstanding feud between Trump and Rapinoe, as well as other right-wing commentators who were delighted with their loss.

Critics of the team have accused them of being activist prima donnas. Conservatives have also mocked the team's efforts to achieve pay equity with the men's team and their response to the national anthem, as some players refused to sing it before a group stage match.

The loss to Sweden provided an opportunity for the team's critics to mock their failure, as they had previously been known for their dominance and had won two-straight World Cups. Rapinoe played a crucial role in the loss, missing a penalty kick, which she had not done since 2018.

Despite the criticism, President Biden praised the team for their incredible run and expressed his admiration for their grit and determination. The USWNT's advocacy for social justice has made them a lightning rod for criticism from the US political right. Trump's swipe at the team reflects his belief that "woke equals failure." While some see the team's activism as a positive force for change, others view it as a divisive and unpatriotic stance.

Rapinoe's role as a leader in the team's fight for equal pay and conditions, as well as her advocacy for racial equality and LGBTQ rights, has garnered both praise and criticism. The loss to Sweden in the World Cup, coupled with Trump's criticism, has heightened tensions surrounding the team.

As Trump campaigns for the Republican nomination in the 2024 presidential election, his feud with the USWNT is likely to continue. Despite the criticism, the team has inspired many women and girls to fight for their dreams, as emphasized by First Lady Jill Biden.