NEW YORK, June 21 (Reuters) - The United States's Megan Rapinoe will take on a different role in her fourth Women's World Cup appearance, coach Vlatko Andonovski said on Wednesday, as he named his 23-player squad for the quadrennial tournament.
But when the 2023 World Cup kicks off on July 20 in Australia and New Zealand, the 2019 Ballon d'Or winner may take a backseat to a new generation of talent.
"Megan Rapinoe is probably going to have a different role than the last World Cup or the previous two World Cups.
The NWSL's 22-year-old MVP Sophia Smith, who was 10 when Rapinoe competed at the 2011 tournament, is poised to have a major role up front at this year's World Cup but still believes she has plenty to learn from the veterans.
Reporting by Amy Tennery in New York Editing by Toby DavisOur Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.
Persons:
Megan Rapinoe, Vlatko Andonovski, Donald Trump, Andonovski, Alyssa Thompson, Laura Harvey, Rapinoe, Sophia Smith, Alyssa, Thompson, Alex Morgan, Amy Tennery, Toby Davis
Organizations:
YORK, U.S ., National Women's Soccer League, Wales, Thomson
Locations:
U.S, Australia, New Zealand, New York