Megan Rapinoe and Sue Bird End Nearly Decade-Long Relationship With Emotional Joint Statement

17 April 2026

Megan Rapinoe and Sue Bird at the 2025 Basketball Hall of Fame Enshrinement Ceremony. Credit: Chris Marion/NBAE via Getty

Megan Rapinoe and Sue Bird have announced that they are ending their relationship after nearly ten years together, bringing an end to one of the most recognizable partnerships in the world of sports and popular culture. The couple shared the news through a joint statement on social media, describing the decision as deeply difficult but ultimately mutual, rooted in continued love and respect for one another.

In their message, the two emphasized that their bond remains strong despite the end of their romantic relationship, highlighting the years they spent building a life together both publicly and privately. They reflected on the meaningful experiences they shared, from major milestones to quieter personal moments, and expressed gratitude for the support they have received from fans and the broader community.

Rapinoe and Bird first met during the 2016 Rio Olympics, where they were both competing for Team USA in soccer and basketball respectively. Their relationship became public in 2017, when Bird came out and confirmed they were together, quickly becoming one of the most prominent LGBTQ couples in sports. Over the years, they built a reputation not only for their athletic achievements but also for their advocacy and visibility.

The couple became engaged in 2020 and were often seen as a power duo whose influence extended beyond sports into media, activism, and business ventures. They appeared together on major platforms, including magazine covers and award shows, and were widely admired for their openness about their relationship. Their visibility played a significant role in promoting acceptance and representation within athletics and beyond.

As part of their announcement, Rapinoe and Bird also revealed that they will be ending their joint podcast, “A Touch More,” which they launched during the pandemic. The show gave fans a glimpse into their personal lives and perspectives, further strengthening their connection with audiences. Although the podcast will come to a close, both have indicated that their professional paths will continue to evolve separately.

Despite their split, the two will remain connected through ongoing professional collaborations. They continue to work together through their production company and are involved in projects such as the upcoming series “Playing the Field,” signaling that their partnership will persist in a different form. Their ability to maintain a collaborative relationship reflects the mutual respect they emphasized in their statement.

The news has come as a surprise to many fans, who viewed the couple as a symbol of stability and strength. Social media quickly filled with messages of support, with many expressing admiration for the way they handled the announcement with honesty and care. While the breakup marks the end of an era, it has also been framed as a thoughtful and mature decision.

As they move forward separately, both Rapinoe and Bird remain influential figures in their respective fields, with careers that continue to expand beyond their athletic achievements. Their relationship may have ended, but the impact they made together as a couple and as advocates is likely to endure for years to come.