OL Reign coach: Rapinoe will miss NWSL tournament

NWSL Challenge Cup will be without one of the biggest stars in women's soccer, as OL Reign coach Farid Benstiti announced that USWNT star Megan Rapinoe will not compete in the tournament later this month.

Although a reason was not given for Rapinoe's absence, Benstiti said he's disappointed the 34-year-old won't play, but understands why she's skipping the competition.

"It's a shame," Benstiti told Le Progres, as translated by ESPN FC's Graham Hays. "I understand her motivations but I'm disappointed and frustrated that she won't be with us to take part in the tournament. Megan is important for the group and we would've been able to create something really important with the club if she joined the group.

"The team and women's football are going to miss her a lot."

If all goes to plan, the NWSL Challenge Cup will be the first team sport league to resume in the United States since the start of the coronavirus pandemic in March.

NWSL confirmed individual players are responsible for deciding whether to compete in the tournament, and that those who choose not to play over COVID-19 concerns will still receive their full salary.

OL Reign kick off the tournament against Sky Blue FC on June 30 in Utah.

Rapinoe is coming off a wildly impressive year which saw her capture the Golden Ball as the best player in the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup, as well as the Women's Ballon d'Or award.