Megan Rapinoe has beaten fellow international teammate Alex Morgan and England star Lucy Bronze to be crowned Best FIFA Women's Player at the Best FIFA Football Awards.
FIFA hosted its annual football award ceremony at the Teatro alla Scala in Italy on Monday evening UK time.
And World Cup hero Rapinoe, who won the Golden Boot and Golden Ball in the summer, scooped the award ahead of the fierce competition she faced from Morgan and Bronze.
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During her acceptance speech, the Reign FC captain praised Manchester City superstar Raheem Sterling and Napoli star Kalidou Koulibaly for their stance against racism in the sport.
She said: "Some of the stories that have inspired me this year... Raheem Sterling and Koulibaly.
"Their amazing performances on the field, but the way they have taken on the disgusting racism that they have to face."
The 34-year-old American was praised for her speech on social media as she powerfully called for "everyone [to] lend your platform to other people, lift other people, share your success."
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She added: "We have a unique opportunity to use this beautiful game to change the world for the better. Do something. Do anything."
Rapinoe was instrumental in leading the US national team to consecutive World Cup titles in France.
The US co-captain, who has been an outspoken champion for equal pay and LGBT rights, finished the tournament with six goals and three assists.
Topics: Football News, Best FIFA Football Awards, Football, FIFA, Alex Morgan, USA, Megan Rapinoe, US
