Megan Rapinoe and Sue Bird have announced the end of their romantic relationship after ten years together, sharing the news through their joint podcast “A Touch More” and social media platforms. The revelation came as a surprise to fans who had followed the high-profile couple’s journey in the public eye for over a decade.
“We see a decision we made together. We will continue to be there for all of you and for each other. It will just look a little different and experience a little different,” Rapinoe said in the emotional announcement. The former U.S. Women’s national soccer team star, who became one of the first prominent American soccer players to publicly discuss her homosexuality in 2012, emphasized their ongoing commitment to mutual support despite the change in their relationship status.
Bird, a five-time Olympic gold medalist and widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players in history, reflected on their shared journey. “We have shared so much of our lives, so much of our relationship with you all, that we wanted to come here and share this with you as well,” the 45-year-old Seattle Storm legend said. Bird had confirmed her relationship with Rapinoe in 2017 after coming out publicly, and the couple became engaged in 2020, though they never married.
“We are truly becoming something new – for each other, for ourselves, and for all of you,” Bird added. The pair announced they would conclude their collaborative podcast “A Touch More” after releasing six final special episodes, with hosts alternating in presenting them. Following this wind-down period, Rapinoe plans to host a miniseries focused on the upcoming FIFA Men’s World Cup before the podcast ends entirely.
In a joint statement shared on Instagram, both athletes expressed gratitude for their time together: “We have shared our entire lives together over the last ten years, in big moments and quiet ones, and that is something we will always carry with us.” The message underscored the depth of their connection while acknowledging the evolution of their paths forward.
Despite the personal separation, both athletes confirmed their professional endeavors will continue without interruption. Bird revealed she will return to hosting “Bird’s Eye View,” her WNBA analysis and interview show co-produced with her company Togethxr and Vox Media. She will also serve as a contributor to NBC’s WNBA coverage this season, marking her first television role covering the league where she played for over two decades. Bird remains a part-owner of the WNBA’s Seattle Storm and holds the position of managing director for the USA Basketball women’s national team.
Rapinoe shared that she will launch her own separate podcast later this year, indicating her media presence will remain strong. Both athletes emphasized that their individual careers in sports media and advocacy are not slowing down despite the conclusion of their joint project.
The news of their split has prompted widespread reaction across sports and entertainment circles, with many noting how Rapinoe and Bird had develop into symbolic figures not only for their athletic excellence but also for their visibility as a same-sex couple in professional sports. Their relationship had been frequently highlighted as a representation of love and partnership in the public sphere, making their separation a notable moment in contemporary sports culture.
As both athletes move forward in their respective careers, they have maintained a unified message of continued respect and support. Their decision to address the separation through their shared creative platform reflects the transparency that characterized much of their time together in the public eye, even as they embark on new chapters individually.
Fans and followers can expect to see both Rapinoe and Bird continue their influential work in sports, activism, and media, albeit along separate personal paths. The conclusion of “A Touch More” will mark the end of an era for their collaborative storytelling, though each has indicated plans to pursue individual projects that align with their passions and professional goals.
What’s next: Megan Rapinoe will focus on launching her solo podcast later in 2026, while Sue Bird prepares for her expanded role with NBC’s WNBA coverage and continues her responsibilities with the Seattle Storm and USA Basketball. Both athletes have confirmed they remain committed to their individual professional endeavors and advocacy work.
Stay updated on Archysport for continuing coverage of Megan Rapinoe, Sue Bird, and other significant developments in the world of sports.
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