Megan Rapinoe criticizes World Cup hydration breaks and ad revenues

Megan Rapinoe criticized mandatory hydration breaks during World Cup matches as disruptive, arguing they detract from the sport's natural flow. Speaking on CBS Sports' 'We Need to Talk', Rapinoe highlighted how these stoppages allow for full-screen advertisements, potentially generating significant ad revenue for broadcasters like Fox. She emphasized the need for player safety, but claimed these breaks appear more focused on commercial gain than athlete welfare. Rapinoe expressed concern over the impact on viewers and the game itself, remarking that such commercial practices feel unnatural in soccer. Despite criticism, hydration breaks will remain in place throughout the tournament, although some broadcasters are avoiding intrusive ads during these stoppages.

• 10:30 PMYahoo Sports — Megan Rapinoe blasts World Cup hydration breaks: ‘So antithetical to the sport’