Undeterred by criticism, Rapinoe kneels again during U.S. anthem

Megan Rapinoe remains committed to the protest of police brutality against black Americans, taking a knee for the second time with the U.S. women's team Sunday during the playing of the national anthem.

A target of criticism for choosing to kneel prior to last Thursday's friendly against Thailand, Rapinoe was allowed to freely express herself before Sunday's exhibition in Atlanta.

U.S. Soccer reportedly opted against reprimanding the 31-year-old, although she's been held out of the starting XI for both games.

Related - Report: U.S. Soccer won't punish Rapinoe for kneeling during anthem

The governing body said in a statement it expects all U.S. national team players to stand during "The Star-Spangled Banner," and that "the playing of our national anthem is an opportunity for our men's and women's national team players and coaches to reflect upon the liberties and freedom we all appreciate in this country."

Teammate and co-captain Carli Lloyd also noted in the buildup to Sunday's contest that Rapinoe's actions were a "distraction on a lot of different fronts."

However, Rapinoe is steadfast in her quest to keep up the national dialogue about racial injustice in America.