Morgan: Men 'grabbing their sacks' illustrates celebration double standard

Warning: Story contains coarse language

United States star Alex Morgan has hit back at critics of her tea-sipping celebration versus England, claiming the existence of a double standard between women athletes and their male counterparts.

Morgan marked her tournament-leading sixth goal of the competition against the Lionesses with a teacup routine, the latest in a slew of celebrations by the American women that have drawn criticism.

"I feel that there is some sort of double standard for females in sports," Morgan said Friday, according to ESPN's Graham Hays. "To feel like we have to be humble in our successes and have to celebrate, but not too much or in a limited fashion.

"You see men celebrating all over the world in big tournaments, grabbing their sacks or whatever it is. And when I look at sipping a cup of tea, I am a little taken aback by the criticism."

Morgan and fellow co-captain Megan Rapinoe have been unrepentant about their side's celebrations since the USWNT became the target of derision following a series of on-pitch frolics in its 13-0 victory over Thailand.

"Wah, wah, wah. We're at the World Cup, what do you want us to do? This is the biggest stage, the biggest moment," Rapinoe told reporters Wednesday.

Rapinoe has also been in the spotlight for comments about a possible White House invitation from current president Donald Trump. "I'm not going to the fucking White House. No. I'm not going to the White House. We're not gonna be invited. I doubt it," Rapinoe said in June.

Morgan offered her own opinion on a potential White House visit during Friday's interview: "I think we'll make that decision after we finish Sunday's game. I think there's been a lot of talk prematurely about the White House and Trump, but first, we have to do business. But (as far as going), I think you guys know the answer to that anyways."