The US Women’s National Soccer Team suffered an unexpected early exit from the Women’s World Cup, losing to Sweden 5-4 in a penalty shootout during a Round 16 match. This sparked various reactions, including an attack from President Donald Trump, who blamed the loss on a culture of “wokeness” under President Joe Biden, using the loss to criticize the state of the nation. The US team’s pride in their country has been in question all tournament after choosing not to sing the national anthem before games.

Trump took to Truth Social to express his displeasure, lambasting the team for being “openly hostile to America” and equating “wokeness” with failure. Trump wrote:

The “shocking and totally unexpected” loss by the U.S. Women’s Soccer Team to Sweden is fully emblematic of what is happening to the our once great Nation under Crooked Joe Biden. Many of our players were openly hostile to America – No other country behaved in such a manner, or even close. WOKE EQUALS FAILURE. Nice shot Megan, the USA is going to Hell!!! MAGA

Rapinoe, who is set to retire after this season, described her miss as a “sick joke” in an interview with Fox Sports. However, she has not publicly responded to Trump’s comments.

In stark contrast to Trump’s attack, President Biden praised the team, expressing pride and commending their grit and determination. He acknowledged their contribution both on and off the field, emphasizing their ability to inspire Americans.

The friction between Trump and Rapinoe has history, especially dating back to 2019 when Rapinoe stated that she would refuse an invitation to the White House if her team won the World Cup. Despite winning the title that year, the team did not visit the White House, a decision that enraged Trump, who accused Rapinoe of disrespecting the country, the White House, and the flag.