Christine Sinclair, one of the founding players and a true icon of the Portland Thorns in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), announced her retirement from the game on Friday. The news sent shockwaves through the soccer world, with many mourning the departure of one of the greatest players of all time.
Sinclair, known for her remarkable goalscoring ability and unwavering determination, will finish the season with the Thorns before hanging up her boots. The club has planned a special tribute to honor her contributions before the final regular-season home game on November 1st.
The 41-year-old, who retired from the Canadian national team last year, leaves an indelible mark on the sport. She finished her international career as the world’s top goal scorer among both women and men, a monumental achievement with a staggering 190 goals.
Sinclair’s impact extends beyond her record-breaking goals. She is one of only three players in the NWSL to have played for the same team since the league’s inception in 2013. She announced her retirement on social media, expressing her deep gratitude for her time with the Thorns.
“For the last 11 years, it has been an honour to be part of the Portland Thorns organization. The club that showed the world what is possible when women’s sports are invested in,” she wrote. “As I finish out this last ride, I want to say what a privilege it has been to represent this unique, beautiful and passionate city that I will always call home.”
Sinclair also emphasized her commitment to growing the game and inspiring future generations. She aims to continue playing a vital role in developing the sport she loves. “I plan to continue growing the game that I love while inspiring the next generation,” she wrote.
Her contributions to the Thorns are undeniable. She helped them win the inaugural NWSL championship in 2013, adding further titles in 2017 and 2022. Sinclair scored Portland’s first-ever goal in a match against FC Kansas City on April 13, 2013, a moment that will forever be etched in Thorns history.
She holds the club record for regular-season goals with 64, ranking her third all-time in the league. Her 195 appearances for Portland, including 176 starts, demonstrate her unwavering commitment and dedication. She has scored a total of 79 goals across all competitions with the Thorns.
Beyond club success, Sinclair was instrumental in Canada’s international triumphs. She led her nation to a gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics, bringing home bronze medals at both the 2012 and 2016 Games. She is one of only five players to have competed in six Women’s World Cups, and one of just three to score in five. While a World Cup trophy eluded her, her legacy remains unmatched.
Sinclair, born in Burnaby, British Columbia, near Vancouver, began her career in college, winning NCAA championships with the University of Portland in 2002 and 2005. Her story is a testament to hard work, dedication, and passion for the sport.
As Sinclair embarks on a new chapter, her impact on women’s soccer will continue to resonate for generations to come. She leaves behind a legacy of unparalleled success and will forever be remembered as one of the greatest players the sport has ever seen.
