The Retirement of Christine Sinclair’s No. 12 Jersey
The Portland Thorns have announced that they will officially retire the No. 12 jersey of celebrated forward Christine Sinclair during a special ceremony scheduled for October 4 at Providence Park. This tribute will mark a significant milestone, as Sinclair will also be the inaugural member of the team’s Hall of Fame, underscoring her pivotal role in the franchise’s history.
Sinclair’s Remarkable Career
Sinclair, who concluded her remarkable playing career in 2024, holds the record as the all-time leading international goal scorer with 190 goals for the Canadian national team. She was a foundational player for the Thorns, joining the club prior to the start of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) in 2013. Throughout her tenure, she was the only athlete to remain with the team since its inception.
Sinclair was instrumental in securing three NWSL Championships for Portland, victorious in 2013, 2017, and 2023, and also contributed to their NWSL Shield wins in both 2016 and 2021. Over her career in the NWSL, she scored an impressive 79 goals, standing as the second-highest scorer in the league’s history.
A Rare Honor
Retirement of jerseys is a rare honor in soccer, further magnified by the fact that Alex Morgan, who played alongside Sinclair during the Thorns’ early championship days, had her No. 13 jersey retired by the San Diego Wave just earlier this month.
International Contributions and Legacy
Sinclair’s contributions extend beyond her club career, having represented Canada on the international stage for nearly a quarter-century since her debut in 2000. Not only did she participate in six World Cups, but her ties to Portland run deep, stemming from her exemplary collegiate career at the University of Portland, where she led the team to national titles in 2002 and 2005.
Additionally, her accolades include being named the top player in college soccer, securing the prestigious MAC Hermann Trophy in both 2004 and 2005, reflecting her exceptional talent and impact on the sport.
