Portland Thorns captain and Canada national team star Christine Sinclair announced her retirement on Friday, stating that the 2024 NWSL season will be her final one as a professional player.
Having started her career in Canada in 1999, this season marks her 25th year as a professional footballer. The 41-year-old retired from international play as the all-time leading scorer in December 2023, and is recognized as one of the most accomplished players in history for both club and country.
In her announcement on social media, Sinclair expressed her gratitude for Portland, saying, “As I wrap up this final journey, I want to acknowledge the honor it has been to represent this unique, beautiful, and passionate city that I will always consider home.”
Sinclair was a Thorn from the start
Sinclair, a two-time NCAA champion with the University of Portland, joined the Thorns in the NWSL’s 2013 inaugural season, leading the club to the league title that year. The 11-season captain helped Portland secure two more championships in 2017 and 2022, as well as the 2016 and 2021 NWSL Shield.
Her 64 regular-season goals are the most in Thorns history and third all-time in the NWSL. Sinclair has scored 79 goals across all NWSL competitions, making her one of only two players to score in every type of league competition.
Portland will celebrate their long-time star with a ceremony on November 1st following the team’s final regular-season match. Currently positioned seventh above the NWSL playoff line, a Thorns playoff spot would prolong Sinclair’s professional career.
Sinclair’s unmatched international career
When Sinclair played her final game for Team Canada on December 5th, she did so as the leading scorer in international soccer history. Currently, no other player — male or female — is within 50 goals of her record-breaking 190.
Making her debut at just 16 years old, Sinclair’s 23-year career with Team Canada included participation in six World Cups and four Olympic Games, where she secured gold in 2021 after claiming bronze in 2012 and 2016. Her 331 international appearances rank second only to USWNT legend Kristine Lilly.
A game-changer off the field and on
Off the field, Sinclair has been a vocal advocate for improving the state of the game in Canada, advocating for equal treatment and pay for the women’s team. This work is ongoing and Sinclair hinted at her ongoing efforts in her announcement on Friday.
Reflecting on her journey, Sinclair wrote, “I still carry the same passion I had as a young 4-year-old in Burnaby, BC, but as I hang up my cleats, I pledge to direct it in a new manner. To continue nurturing the sport I love while motivating the next generation,” she said.
Prior to her final international match in 2023, Sinclair shared that she intends to “definitely be engaged” in soccer moving forward. Sinclair has previously discussed the possibility of coaching or contributing to the Northern Super League, Canada’s new premier women’s league set to commence in 2025.
