Christine Sinclair Bids Farewell: The Legendary Striker Retires After an Unforgettable Career

In a heartfelt announcement, Christine Sinclair, the revered all-time leading goal scorer in international soccer, revealed her retirement from professional sports at the end of the NWSL season. The Canadian superstar confirmed that her last match with the Portland Thorns will take place on November 1 against Angel City FC at Portland's Providence Park.

At the age of 41, Sinclair stepped back from international competition prior to the 2024 NWSL season. The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup marked her final major tournament, culminating with her last appearance for the Canadian national team in December 2023 in front of an ecstatic hometown crowd at BC Place in Vancouver. In her illustrious career, Sinclair netted an astonishing 190 goals in 331 appearances, a record that positions her as the top scorer in the history of both men's and women's international soccer.

After announcing her departure from international play, Sinclair expressed her desire to focus on one final club season without the burden of international duties. In January, the Thorns rewarded her dedication by signing her to a one-year contract through the 2024 season.

During the ongoing season, Sinclair has played 854 minutes over 19 games, contributing two goals and one assist. Her legacy with the Thorns is marked by significant triumphs, including national championships won in 2013, 2017, and 2022, alongside earlier successes in the now-defunct Women's Professional Soccer league with the Western New York Flash and FC Gold Pride.

A testament to her loyalty, Sinclair joined the Portland Thorns in 2013 and has remained with the club ever since, amassing a total of 79 goals across all competitions. She holds the record for the most regular season goals for the Thorns at 64, placing her third overall in NWSL history. Remarkably, she is one of only two players to have scored in every NWSL competition, including regular seasons, playoffs, and various cups.

Sinclair's storied career started at a young age when she received her first senior national team call-up at just 16 years old. Her accolades include two Olympic bronze medals (2012, 2016) and a gold medal from the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. In recognition of her excellence, she was honored with the Northern Star award as Canada’s athlete of the year in 2012 and was the recipient of the prestigious Bobbie Rosenfeld award for Canadian female athlete of the year in both 2012 and 2020.

Looking to the future, Sinclair has expressed her commitment to remaining active in soccer, contemplating roles in coaching and supporting initiatives for the Canadian women’s professional soccer league, the Northern Super League, led by former teammate Diana Matheson. "We’ll see, but I’ll definitely be involved," she stated at a press conference.

As the soccer world prepares to say goodbye to one of its greatest talents, the legacy of Christine Sinclair—both on and off the field—will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.