Biography

Christine Sinclair is a generational goal-scoring talent who led the ascendance of the Canadian women’s national soccer team into the ranks of the world’s best. Growing up in Burnaby, British Columbia, she demonstrated exceptional talent on the field, leading her school teams to numerous victories and earning a reputation as a top soccer talent. Christine’s skills were apparent even during her youth, as she juggled her academic responsibilities with her rigorous training schedule. In 2000, at age 16 she was called up to the national team, and on her second appearance for Canada she found the back of the net for the first time. A year later, Christine joined the University of Portland Pilots, where she set scoring records and earned countless accolades. She finished her collegiate career with 110 goals, the second-most in National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) history, as well as two national championships in 2002 and 2005.
 
As Christine’s career progressed, she quickly became the face of Canadian soccer. She appeared in six FIFA Women’s World Cups, leading Canada into five as team captain. Christine’s list of achievements is extensive and inspiring; throughout her 23-year career with the Canadian national team, she made over 300 appearances, making her one of the most capped players in history. In January 2020, she scored her 185th goal for Canada, surpassing the old record and making her the world’s all-time leading international goal-scorer, in either men’s or women’s soccer. Christine was instrumental in Canada’s success on the global stage, helping the team secure Bronze Medals at the 2012 and 2016 Olympic Games before achieving a monumental Gold Medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games — a crowning achievement in her illustrious career. When she wasn’t playing for Canada, Christine played professionally for various clubs, eventually returning to Portland and finding a home with the National Women’s Soccer League’s (NWSL) Portland Thorns FC during the league’s inaugural season in 2013. She played 12 seasons with the Thorns, scoring 79 goals and winning three NWSL Championships. Christine’s ability to adapt and remain a cornerstone of her team reflected her resilience and commitment to excellence.
 
Christine has been a vocal advocate for gender equality in sports, using her platform to push for better support and funding for women’s soccer. Ahead of its inaugural season in 2025, she joined the ownership group of Vancouver Rise FC, one of the teams in the Canadian professional women’s soccer league, the Northern Super League. Christine has also made significant contributions through her advocacy and community work, evident in her involvement with several charitable organizations, including the MS Society of Canada, inspired by her mother’s battle with multiple sclerosis. She has served as an ambassador for mental health awareness, openly sharing her experiences with grief. Christine’s courage in discussing personal struggles has resonated deeply with Canadians and highlighted the importance of emotional well-being in sport and life.
 
Christine’s journey from a young player in Burnaby to an international soccer legend is a testament to her enduring spirit and relentless pursuit of excellence. Her impact transcends the soccer pitch, as she has become an incredible role model for aspiring athletes and a powerful advocate for women’s sports and community health. Christine’s story is one of triumph, unwavering dedication, and a heartfelt commitment to making the world a better place through sport. As her legacy continues to inspire future generations, Christine remains a symbol of what can be achieved with passion, perseverance, and a profound sense of purpose.