US Wins 4th Women’s World Cup Title, Trump Sends Congratulations

Alex Morgan of the United States kisses the FIFA Women's World Cup Trophy following her team's victory in the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup France Final match between The United States of America and The Netherlands at Stade de Lyon in Lyon, France, on July 7, 2019. Richard Heathcote/Getty Images

The United States won its record fourth Women’s World Cup title and second in a row, beating the Netherlands 2-0 Sunday night when Megan Rapinoe converted a penalty kick in the second half and Rose Lavelle added a goal.

President Donald Trump was quick to congratulate the American women on their achievement, sending them a celebratory message on Twitter.

“Congratulations to the U.S. Women’s Soccer Team on winning the World Cup!” Trump tweeted. “Great and exciting play. America is proud of you all!”

Captain Rapinoe scored in the 61st minute after a video review determined Stefanie van der Gragt had fouled Alex Morgan with a kick to the shoulder in the penalty area.

Rapinoe slotted the ball past goalkeeper Sari van Veenendaal for her 50th international goal, her sixth of the tournament to win the Golden Ball as scoring leader.

Lavelle, at 24 the team’s up-and-coming star, added a goal on an 18-foot left-footed shot in the 69th after a solo run up the center of the field.

United States' Rose Lavelle, left, is challenged by Netherlands' Danielle Van De Donk during the Women's World Cup final soccer match between the US and The Netherlands at the Stade de Lyon in Decines, outside Lyon, France, on July 7, 2019. David Vincent/AP Photo

Visit to the White House?

Rapinoe drew criticism for saying she would not visit the White House if her team wins the World Cup in late June.

“I’m not going to the [expletive] White House,” Rapinoe told Eight By Eight Magazine. “No. I’m not going to the White House. We’re not going to be invited… I doubt it.”

Responding to the comments, Trump took the opportunity to admonish the soccer star for conduct that he believes disrespects the White House, the flag, and the country.

“Women’s soccer player, mPinoe, just stated that she is ‘not going to the [expletive] White House if we win.’ Other than the NBA, which now refuses to call owners, owners (please explain that I just got Criminal Justice Reform passed, Black unemployment is at the lowest level in our Country’s history, and the poverty index is also best number EVER), leagues and teams love coming to the White House,” Trump said. “I am a big fan of the American Team, and Women’s Soccer, but Megan should WIN first before she TALKS! Finish the job!”

He then extended an invitation to the U.S. women’s soccer team to visit the White House regardless of whether the team brings back the World Cup.

“We haven’t yet invited Megan or the team, but I am now inviting the TEAM, win or lose,” he said. “Megan should never disrespect our Country, the White House, or our Flag, especially since so much has been done for her & the team. Be proud of the Flag that you wear. The USA is doing GREAT!”

After the final whistle, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio took the opportunity to invite the team to a ticker-tape parade up the Canyon of Heroes in Manhattan on Wednesday.

The Americans never trailed in the tournament and set records with 26 goals and a 12-game World Cup winning streak dating to 2015. U.S. coach Jill Ellis became the first coach to lead a team to two Women’s World Cup titles, and the U.S. joined Germany in 2003 and 2007 as the only repeat champions.

Former American players joined the current generation on the field for the postgame celebration.

US players celebrate at the end of the Women's World Cup final soccer match between US and The Netherlands at the Stade de Lyon in Decines, outside Lyon, France, on July 7, 2019. US won 2:0. David Vincent/AP Photo

Supporters cheer at stands prior to the Women's World Cup final soccer match between US and The Netherlands at the Stade de Lyon in Decines, outside Lyon, France, on July 7, 2019. David Vincent/AP Photo

The Associated Press, Epoch Times reporter Janita Kan and NTD staff contributed to this report.