Megan Rapinoe has had quite the year, and it’s just been topped off with the ultimate recognition of her achievements in the game: the Balon d’Or. To honour all of her achievements over the last 12 months, Nike have presented her with a special commemorative Nike Mercurial Vapor 13.
Rapinoe is one of the faces of the women’s game, driving its appeal to new heights and serving as one of its greatest players. Instantly recognisable at the World Cup this year with her trademark pink hair, it’s this that has influenced the base of her commemorative Mercurial. It’s then joined by gold detailing throughout in recognition of the trophies she has won.
Those details include her name running down the lateral side of each boot, with the Mercurial ‘M’ taking its place at the start. ‘Just Do It’ then appears down the medial side. The heel counter and sockliner carry the four stars Rapinoe and her American teammates proudly sport on their national team jerseys.
The boot was presented to her in a special box with an inscription that read: “Some aim to leave their mark on the game; you have changed it. A Pioneer on and off the field, your unabashed personality and style of play have empowered your peers and fans while earning you some much deserved recognition. Congratulations Megan Rapinoe, 2019 Balon d’Or winner.”
Rapinoe, now 34, co-captained the US to victory at this summer's World Cup, where she was named player of the tournament and finished joint-top scorer with six goals. In September she was also awarded FIFA’s Best award. Quite the year.
The special edition commemorative Mercurial Vapor 13 was made just for Megan Rapinoe and will not be available for retail.
