In a storybook farewell, Portland Thorns’ beloved forward Christine Sinclair scored in her final regular-season match at Providence Park, helping the Thorns secure a 3-0 victory over Angel City and clinch a spot in the NWSL playoffs for the tenth time in club history. Sinclair, playing her last season in the league, found the net in the 16th minute, thrilling a sellout crowd of 23,212 fans. Goals from Sophia Smith and Morgan Weaver followed, giving Portland a commanding win in their final game of the regular season.

The Canadian soccer legend, who retired from international play as the sport’s all-time leading scorer with 190 goals, has been a fixture with the Thorns since the NWSL’s debut in 2013. In her tenure, Sinclair led Portland to three league championships (2013, 2017, and 2022) and became the club’s all-time top scorer with 66 goals, ranking third in NWSL history. Friday’s match marked her 200th regular season appearance for the Thorns. Coincidentally, she also scored in her 100th and 150th regular season milestone matches.

Subbed out in the 83rd minute, Sinclair left the pitch to a standing ovation and was honored in an emotional post-game ceremony. Addressing the fans, she expressed her gratitude, saying, “Some of the best moments of my life have been on this pitch. So just a massive thank you.”

Beyond her NWSL accomplishments, Sinclair’s career spans six Women’s World Cups, Olympic medals, and an NCAA championship-winning career at the University of Portland. And as her playing career draws to a close, it’s safe to say: Christine Sinclair’s legacy in Portland won’t soon be forgotten.