Christine Sinclair, who led Portland to 3 NWSL titles, to be honoured in final regular-season match

Christine Sinclair, the iconic soccer player, will forever be remembered for her incredible career with the Portland Thorns. As she prepares to retire at the end of the season, she fondly recalls her favorite memory of the Thorns – stepping onto the field for the very first National Women’s Soccer League season in 2013. The energy of over 16,000 fans at Providence Park for the Thorns’ home opener was a sign of the sport’s growing popularity in Portland.

Sinclair reflects on the significance of that moment, saying, “It was very special and just something that not many players in that opening year got to experience playing in their home parks. So it was just special and I was so proud to be able to call Portland home in that moment and share it with my teammates because I knew that was possible.”

Throughout her time with the Thorns, Sinclair has been a key player in their success, helping the team secure the inaugural NWSL championship in 2013 and titles in 2017 and 2022. As she prepares to be honored in her final regular-season game against Angel City, the Thorns are in need of a win or draw to secure a playoff spot.

While Sinclair’s retirement may not mark the end of her playing career if the Thorns advance to the playoffs, Friday night’s match will be a chance for fans to celebrate the Canadian star who has made Portland her home since her college days at the University of Portland. Sinclair acknowledges the impact the Thorns have had on women’s sports, stating, “The Thorns, I think, showed the world what was possible when women’s sports were invested into. And now looking around the NWSL, the WNBA, professional hockey, it’s incredible to see the growth.”

Sinclair’s legacy with the Thorns is unmatched, as she holds the record for most regular-season goals scored with the team and has played in a record 199 games. Her journey has been filled with milestones, including scoring Portland’s first goal in the NWSL and appearing in six Women’s World Cups.

As she looks ahead to her 200th game with the Thorns, Sinclair remains humble and focused on the present moment. She acknowledges that the true impact of her retirement may not sink in until she has time to reflect in the quiet moments ahead. Sinclair retired from the Canadian national team last year as the world’s all-time leading goal scorer, with numerous Olympic and World Cup medals to her name.

Christine Sinclair’s remarkable career has left a lasting impact on women’s soccer, and her contributions to the sport will continue to inspire future generations. As she bids farewell to the field, her legacy with the Portland Thorns will be remembered as a defining chapter in the history of women’s sports.