The torchbearer of Indian Football decides to hang boots.
Sunil Chhetri, the torchbearer of Indian football, has decided to retire from international football. With a career that has spanned over two decades, Chhetri’s journey is nothing short of legendary. His legacy and leadership have inspired thousands of young talents across the nation. Being an army kid one can say that he was born with a passion for football in his blood. His father played for the Indian Army Football team and his mother played for the Nepal Women’s National Team.
The Journey
Sunil Chhetri’s professional journey began in 2002 when he was first signed by one of the nation’s oldest football clubs, Mohun Bagan. He then went on to play for JCT, East Bengal and Dempo. Chhetri’s talent caught the attention of foreign clubs in 2007 when he had a trial with Coventry City, but the move could not be completed. It was 2010 when he became only the third Indian footballer to play in a foreign league when he signed for Kansas City Wizards in the USA’s MLS.
Chhetri continued to shine at the club level when he got his first call for international duty. It was 12 th June 2005 when he adored the blue jersey of the Indian Football Team. That was the same match when he registered his first international goal against Pakistan. Who knew that this would be the beginning of a new era in Indian Football? Since then, he went on to score 94 goals for his nation. His ability to find the back of the net along with his leadership qualities made him the heart and soul of Indian Football.
Achievements and Accolades
With a career spanning over two decades, Chhetri has 150 appearances for the country making him the most capped player in India. In these 150 matches, he has scored 94 goals making him the fourth top scorer in the sport ever. Currently, he is the third active top-scorer behind legends Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. At the club level, he has appeared in 339 matches and scored 146 goals.
TROPHIES
He has won the following trophies throughout his glorious career –
- Jawaharlal Nehru Cup in 2007, 2009 and 2012
- AFC Challenge Cup in 2008
- SAFF Cup in 2011, 2015, 2021 and 2023
- Heo Tri-nation Cup in 2017 and 2023
- Heo International Cup in 2018 and 2023
AWARDS
The Indian Football captain has been honoured with the following awards –
- Arjuna Award in 2011
- Padma Shri Award in 2019
- Khel Ratna Award (highest sporting honour of India) in 2021
- Asian Icon by the AFC in 2018
- AIFF Player of the Year in 2007, 2011, 2013, 2014, 2017 and 2019
- FPAI Player of the Year in 2009 and 2018
- AFC Challenge Cup Most Valuable Player in 2008
- SAFF Player of the Tournament in 2011
- Hero of the Intercontinental Cup in 2018
Beyond the field of play
Sunil Chhetri’s love and dedication for the sport is not only seen on the field but also off the field. He always keeps encouraging people to come ahead and play the sport. His influence extends beyond the field of play as he continues to mentor young talents and contribute to the development of Indian football. He spreads awareness about the sport through social media platforms and his in-person interactions with his fans.
Captain Sunil Chhetri will be seen in action for the last time in the beautiful Indian jersey on 6 th June 2024 when India plays against Kuwait in which India will fight for a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026. His career has produced countless memories of thrilling goals and passion for the sport. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. He sure is one of those players whom we would never want to see grow old and retire. We thank Sunil Chhetri for all his contributions to the sport. All of these efforts will resonate for years to come.
Here’s to a legend who has given his all for Indian Football. Thank you for all the beautiful
memories!
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