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The 2025 ESPYS generated plenty of conversation including in the soccer realm with several big moments. The Megan Rapinoe ESPYS diss by comedian Shane Gillis went viral while two other American players took home awards.
Megan Rapinoe ESPYS diss
Gillis’ comments about former United States women’s national team star Rapinoe caught the attention of many fans. During the comedian’s opening monologue he joked that he was happy the retired soccer icon wasn’t in attendance.
@Shanemgillis Shane Gillis came out swinging immediately in his ESPY monologue, immediate direct hit to Megan Rapinoe pic.twitter.com/jQqHr3KfeQ
— Cantominimalisticmaximalist (@CantoMini) July 17, 2025
Rapinoe is one of the most polarizing figures in the sport with soccer supporters either loving her or hating her. Gillis’ joke didn’t appear to land in front of the audience or among Rapinoe supporters, however Rapinoe haters online were ecstatic.
Another former USWNT player was in the spotlight but for far happier reasons. Recently retired U.S. and San Diego Wave FC forward Alex Morgan took home the ESPY icon award.
WNBA legend Diana Taurasi also received the icon award as the pair of women’s sports legends were honored for “recognition of their incredible careers and significant impact on the world of sports.”
The icon Alex Morgan with her ESPYs Icon Award ✨ pic.twitter.com/puMkneBrln
— San Diego Wave FC (@sandiegowavefc) July 17, 2025
During Morgan’s speech she honored the women who came before her in the sports world.
"We're standing on the shoulders of giants, and this is a huge tribute to them as much as us," Morgan said in her acceptance speech. "So, to the women before us, it's because of you that we never have to apologize for speaking up or for fighting to raise the bar."
One other American soccer player took home an award as Christian Pulisic was named the Best Soccer Player over the likes of Lamine Yamal, Aitana Bonmatí and Alexia Putellas.
