“Something she always says is that she wanted to inspire a nation and I think that’s her legacy… Every young person in this country that plays this game knows who Christine Sinclair is and I think that is a heritage of which she is very proud. I also think his legacy extends much further than that. —Canadian forward Janine Beckie.

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“Sinc has always been able to empower the next generation… (Retirement) is difficult because on the one hand it’s like we don’t need you anymore but on the other hand it’s important that “We don’t need you anymore because it’s a sign of growth.” —Canadian goalkeeper Erin McLeod.

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“(She was) the face of women’s sport in Canada for almost a decade, if not more… In 2012 (at the London Olympics), she put the country on her back. She did everything she could for women’s sports in Canada. We couldn’t ask for anything more. —Former Canada Soccer General Secretary Peter Montopoli.

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“She is the player we speak to on the field when the chips are played. An important role and visual leader for us. But she didn’t say too much. People don’t realize how intelligent this woman is. So when she speaks, it’s always helpful. — Rhian Wilkinson, former teammate, coach and Canada Soccer Hall of Famer.

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“The game will miss her.” —Former Canada coach Kenneth Heiner-Moller.

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This report by The Canadian Press was first published in December. 4, 2023.

The Canadian Press