In a headline-making declaration, U.S. soccer icon Megan Rapinoe has threatened to leave the United States after what she describes as a devastating fallout with tech mogul Elon Musk — one that allegedly cost her over $100 million in lost endorsement deals. The World Cup champion and longtime activist is speaking out in frustration, claiming that Musk’s influence, particularly through his ownership of X (formerly Twitter), has turned the public and corporate America against her.
“This crazy guy disrespects me here,” Rapinoe said in a candid statement, referencing Musk. “I’ve served this country on the world stage, I’ve used my voice to stand up for what’s right, and now I’m being punished for it — not by the people, but by a billionaire with a platform and an agenda.”
Rapinoe’s comments come in the wake of several major brands quietly distancing themselves from her over the past year. According to close sources, these companies cited “controversial public presence” and “polarizing social media discussions” as reasons for not renewing endorsement contracts. Rapinoe believes this shift directly correlates with her outspoken criticism of Musk’s leadership of X, which she has previously called “a breeding ground for hate and disinformation.”
Her public stance against Musk includes her denouncing X’s rollback of content moderation policies, which she says has led to increased online harassment toward minority communities, including LGBTQ+ people — a group she proudly represents. Since voicing her concerns, Rapinoe says she has been repeatedly targeted by online mobs, many of which she claims were emboldened or even encouraged by Musk’s own posts.
Musk, known for his unapologetic and often sarcastic online behavior, hasn’t remained silent. He responded to Rapinoe’s claims in a short post: “Freedom of speech includes hearing opinions you don’t like. Losing $100M for being woke? Sounds like poor business choices.” The comment drew sharp reactions across the internet, with some applauding Musk’s bluntness, while others saw it as further evidence of a hostile online culture.
For Rapinoe, the financial hit is only part of the story. The emotional toll, she says, is what has pushed her to consider leaving the country altogether. “I’ve always believed in America’s promise,” she said, “but if standing for justice gets you silenced and stripped of your career, maybe it’s time to go somewhere that still values that voice.”
While Rapinoe hasn’t confirmed any plans to relocate, her remarks have ignited debate about the power dynamics between billionaires, athletes, and public discourse in the digital age. As cultural battles continue to play out online, her story is becoming a flashpoint — not just about money lost, but about the cost of speaking out.
