Today marks the end of an era as Christine Sinclair – a true Canadian icon, Olympic gold medalist and world record holder for international goals – has announced her retirement from professional soccer with the Portland Thorns. Christine was not only a remarkable player, but also a trailblazer who inspired generations of Canadians with her unparalleled talent, leadership and commitment to the beautiful game.
An Officer of the Order of Canada, Christine has captained four preeminent Canadian soccer teams: the 2010 Concacaf champions, the back-to-back Olympic bronze medalists (2012, 2016), and the 2021 Olympic gold medalists. A 14-time Canadian Soccer Player of the Year, she was named the Best FIFA Special Award and the Canada Soccer President’s Award. She led Canada to fourth place at the 2003 FIFA World Cup, won ten Concacaf medals and won two medals at the Pan American Games.
At the professional level, she has won eight titles with Portland Thorns FC, including the NWSL Championship in 2013, 2017 and 2022. She also won two consecutive WPS titles with FC Gold Pride (2010) and Western New York Flash (2011) , the USL W-League with Vancouver Whitecaps FC and two NCAA championships with the University of Portland. As a teenager, she won the Metro League and BC Cup with Vancouver UBC Alumni.
“Christine, your achievements on and off the field have set a new standard in Canadian sport. They paved the way for future generations and left a legacy that will continue to shape the future of soccer in Canada and around the world. Thank you for the unforgettable moments, for taking Canadian soccer to new heights and for your unwavering commitment to the sport.”
- Peter Augruso, President // Kevin Blue, CEO and Secretary General
“Gamer. Introvert. Problem solver. Creator. Thinker. Lifelong food evangelist. Alcohol advocate.”