Rivalries are always at their intense and piercingly best in the world of soccer when the two competing countries are the United States and Canada. These two countries have had some of the most enthralling matches, coupled with what was at stake. However, after one of the legends from Canada, Christine Sinclair, announced her retirement, the USWNT stars, starting with none other than Megan Rapinoe, bid farewell to her through social media.

Christine Sinclair, regarded as one top goalscorer, hung her boots after an iconic 20+ year career. To state that Sinclair’s career was legendary is an understatement. Sinclair has over 190 international goals to her name which makes her the all-time top scorer, the top scorer in history in women’s soccer, and the top scorer in all soccer regardless of gender. 

Sinclair, who was well-liked by Canadians for her leadership, modesty, and commitment to the game, also won the respect of her fiercest rivals, the American players. Megan Rapinoe, who recently retired herself, was one of the first to pay tribute saying, “Never seen anything like you in my life Sincy, thank you for so much – as teammates and enemies – I am so grateful. BUILD MFKN THE STATUE. “

Several other USWNT players took to social media to post heartfelt messages, celebrating the incredible career of their on-field rival and off-field friend. Sophia Smith expressed her feelings by saying “There will never be another. Thank you Sincy “, while Lindsey Horan said, “The absolute best. The greatest role model I could ever have. Thank you Sinc . I love you so much.”  Sinclair’s former teammate, Sam Coffey shared her gratitude, “Thank you will never be enough. You are the greatest to ever do it – but an even greater person, friend and teammate. Its been nothing sort of an honor to share the field with you”. Their gestures showed the deep admiration that extended far beyond the pitch.

What Christine Sinclair has done for Women’s Soccer

Sinclair’s international career is truly extraordinary. She has represented Canada in six FIFA Women’s World Cup tournaments and won three Olympic medals. Her greatest achievement was winning the gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Games, where she played a crucial role in Canada’s victory against Sweden. Sinclair’s impact goes beyond her medals and tournament appearances. She has scored an incredible 190 international goals, breaking the all-time record for both men and women in international soccer. This confirms her place among the all-time great soccer players.

Sinclair has inspired hundreds of thousands of little players in Canada and the rest of the world. For ages, women’s soccer in Canada did not have the same global momentum as it does today. Sinclair helped to push Canadian women’s soccer into greater prominence. Her achievements inspired more girls to pick up the ball and influenced the growth of youth soccer in Canada, increasing participation, investment, and attention towards women’s sports.

Christine Sinclair in 2017 with her Canadian teammates signed a new contract. This contract gave the women’s team better wages and working conditions. Sinclair had been vocal about pushing for better treatment. She also used her status in the global market. This allowed her to raise broader issues women’s soccer faces. These issues include differences in resources, exposure, and recognition compared to men’s soccer.

On Friday, November 1 at 7:00 p.m. PT, the Thorns will pay tribute to Sinclair and her legacy when Portland plays Angel City in the year’s final regular season game.  As she takes her final bow on the stage and leaves an empty void both for Canada and the sport as a whole. But if we’ve learned anything from the outpouring of love from her teammates to her opponents, it’s that Sinclair’s legacy will be felt for years to come!