Sunil Chhetri Indian Football Legend
Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri has announced his retirement from international football. He will play his last match against Kuwait on June 6. Since this announcement, fans have been quite emotional. Sunil Chhetri started his international career against Pakistan in 2005. He was honored with the Arjuna Award in 2011 and the Padma Shri in 2019.
Sunil Chhetri is the 3rd highest international goal scorer among active players (4th overall), behind only Ronaldo and Messi. He is also the highest active goal scorer from Asia.
He made the announcement in a video on ‘X’ (formerly Twitter),
“The feeling that I recall over the last 19 years is a beautiful mix of duty, pressure, and immense joy,” said the 39-year-old Chhetri as he announced his decision to retire.
“I never really thought about the individual games I’ve played for the country, or whether I did well or poorly. But now, as I approached the end, these last one-and-a-half to two months felt very surreal,” he continued. “I made this decision knowing that the next game would be my last.”
“Every training session with the national team, I just want to savor it. The upcoming game against Kuwait carries pressure, as we need the three points to qualify for the next round. It’s crucial for us,” the skipper emphasized.
“Yet, in a strange way, I don’t feel the pressure because these 15-20 days with the national team and the match against Kuwait mark the end,” he concluded.
Ranks third among active players in terms of goals
Chhetri, who debuted in 2005, has scored an impressive 94 goals for his country. As he exits the stage, he leaves behind a legacy as India’s highest-ever goal scorer and most-capped player.
Additionally, he ranks third among active players in terms of goals scored, trailing only Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
Why He’s Leaving
Even though he’s still fit and ready to play, Chhetri wants to make room for younger players to shine. He believes it’s important for India to give them a chance.
His Achievements
Chhetri has had an amazing career. He’s scored the most goals in Indian football history – 94 goals in 150 games. He’s won many awards like the Arjuna Award and Khel Ratna Award.
An Iconic Leader
Beyond individual accolades, Chhetri’s leadership on and off the field has been exemplary.
- He captained India to historic victories, including triumphs in the Nehru Cup and SAFF Championships, as well as securing qualification for the AFC Asian Cup after a 27-year hiatus, a testament to his indomitable spirit and dedication to the game.
A Lasting Legacy
As Chhetri steps away, he leaves behind a legacy of hard work and dedication. He has been an inspiration to many young players, showing them what’s possible with passion and talent.
Sunil Chhetri’s name will forever be synonymous with Indian football, a shining beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring young talents striving to follow in his illustrious footsteps.
