Christine Sinclair Announces Retirement, Ending a Legendary Career with the Portland Thorns

Christine Sinclair, a pioneer for the Portland Thorns and a cornerstone of women's soccer, has announced her retirement.

The 41-year-old from Burnaby, B.C., will complete the season with the Thorns, with the club planning to honour her during their final home game on November 1st.

Sinclair, the world's all-time leading international goal scorer with 190 goals, stepped away from Canada's national team last year.

She has been a part of the Thorns since the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) began in 2013, scoring Portland's first-ever goal and leading the team to three NWSL championships and multiple other titles.

Her legacy extends beyond the club.

She won a gold medal with Canada at the Tokyo Olympics and bronze medals at both the 2012 and 2016 Games.

A veteran of six Women's World Cups, Sinclair remains one of just three players to score in five editions.

In a heartfelt social media post, Sinclair expressed her gratitude: "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. I want to say what a privilege it has been to represent this unique, beautiful, and passionate city that I will always call home."

Portland, where Sinclair scored 79 goals across all competitions, praised her immense contributions, stating: "As No. 12 hangs up the boots, we thank her for her long-term commitment to our club and consider ourselves lucky to witness the greatness and progress she created for soccer on a global landscape."

Canada Soccer also acknowledged Sinclair's impact, noting, "Christine, your achievements both on and off the field have set a new standard in Canadian sport. You've paved the way for future generations, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to shape the future of soccer in Canada and around the world."

There are hints that Sinclair may stay involved in the sport, with Vancouver Rise FC of the Northern Super League teasing a possible role for her. "Something BIG coming soon," the club posted, featuring a photo of Sinclair.

As she bids farewell to her playing career, Sinclair vows to continue inspiring the next generation: "I still have the passion as that young four-year-old growing up in Burnaby, B.C., but as I hang up my playing boots, I vow to channel it in a new way. To continue growing the game I love."

Sinclair's final chapter with the Thorns will conclude this season, but her impact on the sport will endure for years to come.