One of Canada's most consistent and outstanding athletes is now being recognized with the nation's highest honour. Earlier today, it was announced that soccer star and Olympic medalist, Christine Sinclair, will be appointed to the Order of Canada. The distinction is Canada's most prestigious civilian order and is given to those who have greatly contributed to the nation throughout their lifetime. It is given to people across all lines of work, and includes entries from the world of politics, entertainment, literature, and more.
Since its establishment in 1967, the title has been given out 6,531 times to icons like author Margaret Atwood, environmentalist David Suzuki, and former Prime Ministers like Pierre Trudeau and Kim Campbell. Sinclair is one of 99 new appointments this year, and will be inducted along with NHL great Mark Messier, comedian Catherine O'Hara, and Jeopardy! host Alex Trebek.
Just like the aforementioned names, Sinclair has transcended her medium to become a renowned global figure. Her achievements in sport have positioned her as an all-time great, with only America's Abby Wombach outscoring Sinclair in international women's play. Given that Wombach is recently retired, it's not out of the question to expect Canada's captain to surpass this impressive milestone.
The 34-year-old footballer is still going strong after seventeen years of international play and seasons of dominance in club leagues across the continent. "I am a very, very proud Canadian, I am proud of where I am from, and to be recognized in this nature is surreal," said Sinclair in a statement. "It's not something you can dream about happening to you. I can dream of winning a World Cup or an Olympic gold medal, and that's my job, but to have your country recognize you... I don't even know what to say."
When asked about the soccer legend, Canada's coach John Herdman had only glowing things to say. "Everything she does is about playing for her country. Every single day the decisions she makes about her football career and around her personal life, are about pulling on that red jersey," Herdman stated. "When someone gets that opportunity they either treat it as their sport, or as a calling, and I think Christine over the last eight years, has recognized that this is her calling to be part of something special."
