Canadian soccer legend Christine Sinclair isn't quite ready to hang up her cleats. The 40-year-old forward, revered as one of the greatest to ever play women's football, has re-signed with Portland Thorns FC for the 2024 season. Sinclair's one-year contract ensures that she'll grace the pitch in the Rose City for her twelfth consecutive season, CBS Sports reported.
This major deal follows on the heels of Sinclair's retirement from the Canadian women's national team. Despite her stepping away from international play, she has chosen to quickly extend her professional club career, bringing veteran experience and scoring prowess back to the Thorns. "I’m thrilled to be back at Portland for another year and be a part of this next era of women’s soccer in the Rose City,” Sinclair was quoted in a Canadian Soccer Daily article.
Since her NWSL debut, Sinclair has become a cornerstone for Portland, racking up 62 goals across 176 appearances, landing her at third on the league's all-time goal-scoring list. Not one to chase records over team glory, Sinclair has been pivotal in the Thorns' trove of silverware – a detail not lost on her coach. “To get the GOAT back in a Thorns jersey for 2024 is fantastic news. To have Sinc’s experience, qualities and presence is vital for our roster, in both her impact on the field as well as the example she sets for others on a daily basis,” Thorns head coach Mike Norris stated in a KGW report.
In addition to Sinclair's return, the Thorns have ensured continuity on their backline by re-signing defender Meghan Klingenberg to a one-year deal for the upcoming season. A vital part of the squad, Klingenberg is set to continue her legacy with the Thorns, making it her ninth year with the team. Together with Sinclair, the pair aims to help catapult the Thorns to further successes after a year that saw them miss out on the championship, a fact that has undoubtedly left a hunger for more trophies. “She has been committed to building this league and this club, and we are thrilled to be able to have her back for another year as we begin this next era in Thorns history." Thorns general manager Karina LeBlanc told KGW.
As another NWSL season looms on the horizon, fans and foes alike will watch to see if the celebrated forward can continue to find the back of the net with the same potency that has made her a fearsome opponent decade after decade. With Sinclair's commitment remaining unwavering, Portland Thorns supporters can look forward to at least one more year with their iconic No. 12 leading the charge on their quest for more silverware.
