Sunil Chhetri, the iconic figure in Indian football, has announced his retirement from international football, marking the end of an illustrious career that spanned nearly two decades. The announcement came on Thursday, with Chhetri revealing that the upcoming match against Kuwait will be his last appearance for the national team.
Scheduled to take place on June 6 in Kolkata, the FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Kuwait will serve as a fitting farewell for Chhetri, who has been a stalwart for Indian football over the years. Earlier in the day, Chhetri took to social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) to share a heartfelt video, reflecting on his journey and expressing gratitude to his fans and supporters.
Recalling his memorable moments as a player, Chhetri reminisced about his debut for the national team, a day that he holds dear in his heart. He vividly recounted the excitement and nerves he felt before stepping onto the field, under the guidance of his first national team coach, Sukhi sir. Chhetri’s debut match remains etched in his memory as one of the best days of his national team journey, filled with a mix of emotions ranging from excitement to nervousness.
Throughout his illustrious career, Chhetri has represented India with utmost dedication and passion, embodying the spirit of the game. He reflected on the honor and privilege of wearing the national team jersey, describing it as a blend of duty, pressure, and immense joy. With humility, he acknowledged the milestones he achieved during his tenure, including his 150th appearance for India in March, where he scored against Afghanistan in Guwahati.
As India’s all-time top scorer and most-capped player, Chhetri leaves behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come. His remarkable goal-scoring prowess, leadership on and off the field, and unwavering commitment to the sport have earned him accolades and admiration from fans and peers alike. Despite facing challenges and setbacks along the way, Chhetri’s determination and resilience have propelled Indian football to new heights.
With 94 goals to his name, Chhetri’s contributions to Indian football are unparalleled. He ranks third in the list of goal scorers among active players worldwide, trailing only behind legends Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. As he bids farewell to the international stage, Chhetri’s impact on Indian football will be celebrated and cherished for years to come, leaving an indelible mark on the sport in the country.
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