Christine Sinclair, Founding Portland Thorn, Announces Retirement

Christine Sinclair, one of the most decorated soccer players of all time and a founding member of the Portland Thorns, announced her retirement from the game on Friday. Sinclair will finish out the season with the Thorns before hanging up her boots for good.

Christine Sinclair, one of the most iconic figures in women's soccer, is calling it a career. The 41-year-old Canadian international announced her retirement on Friday, bringing the curtain down on a legendary career that spanned two decades.

Sinclair will finish out the season with the Portland Thorns of the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL), where she has been a fixture since the league's inception in 2013. The Thorns plan to honor Sinclair before their final regular season home game on November 1st.

Sinclair's retirement marks the end of an era for Canadian soccer. She retires as the world's all-time leading goalscorer among both men and women with an astonishing 190 goals. She also holds the record for most appearances for the Canadian national team with 308 caps.

Sinclair's achievements on the international stage are unmatched. She won a gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 and bronze medals at the 2012 and 2016 Games. She is also one of just five players to appear in six Women's World Cups and one of just three players to score in five.

At club level, Sinclair has been equally successful. She helped the Thorns win the inaugural NWSL championship in 2013 and added two more titles in 2017 and 2022. She is the Thorns' all-time leading scorer with 64 goals.

Sinclair's retirement is a major loss for the NWSL. She is one of just three active players who have played for the same team since the league launched in 2013. Her experience and leadership will be sorely missed.

But while Sinclair may be retiring from the game, her legacy will live on. She is an inspiration to young players around the world and a role model for women everywhere. She has helped to raise the profile of women's soccer and pave the way for future generations of players.

Thank you, Christine Sinclair, for everything you have given to the game of soccer. You are a true legend and your contributions to the sport will never be forgotten.