Megan Rapinoe Says Virgil Van Dijk Should Win FIFA Best Player Award "Just For How Cute He Is"

USA striker Megan Rapinoe has been criticised by fans after she said Liverpool's Virgil van Dijk should win the best men's award based on his appearance.

The 34-year-old, who picked up the best women's award at last night's ceremony in Milan, appeared on the green carpet with international teammate Alex Morgan when she was filmed complementing the Dutch centre-back.

In the below clip, she says van Dijk should receive the trophy "just for how cute he is", sparking a huge reaction online.

Many have taken to Twitter in recent hours to point out the comments.

One user said: "If Virgil Van Dijk said this about Megan Rapinoe he'd be labeled a misogynist and condescending. Harmful to the growth of the women's game. Would have to write a badly written public apology on Instagram and would be hence forth known as cancelled."

While another said: "I'm waiting for @alexmorgan13 to condemn what Rapinoe said here. How can Rapinoe the social justice warrior make Van Dijk feel like an object by saying that he deserves to win because of his looks over everything he done on the pitch?"

Image: PA

Van Dijk missed out on the coveted prize as Barcelona forward Lionel Messi, who scored 54 goals in 58 games for club and country last season, picked up his sixth best men's award.

Meanwhile Rapinoe deservedly picked up the best women's prize after her inspired performances at last summer's World Cup in France.

During her acceptance speech, the Reign FC captain praised Manchester City winger Raheem Sterling and Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly for their stance against racism in the sport.

"Some of the stories that have inspired me this year... Raheem Sterling and Koulibaly." she said.

"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 also 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."

She added: "We have a unique opportunity to use this beautiful game to change the world for the better. Do something. Do anything."

Thoughts on Rapinoe's comments about van Dijk, and her speech at last night's FIFA awards ceremony?

Let us know in the comments.

Topics: Football News, Football, FIFA, Virgil Van Dijk, USA, Megan Rapinoe

Jack Kenmare

Jack Kenmare is a writer at SPORTbible. He's interviewed some of the biggest names in sport, including Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Pele, Carles Puyol and Tim Henman. He dabbles in all things sport but football is his biggest passion. He was once hit in the head by a wayward strike from Nicky Butt and lived to tell the tale.

@jackkenmare_