Sunil Chhetri, India’smost decorated footballer, has announced his retirement frominternational football. TheFIFA World Cup Qualifiergame againstKuwaitinKolkataonJune 6will be his last appearance for the national team.
Chhetri’s Illustrious Journey
Chhetri’s remarkable journey began in 2002 withMohun Bagan. His talent soon propelled him abroad, with stints at the USA’sKansas City Wizards (2010)and Portugal’sSporting CP reserves (2012). Back in India, he donned the jerseys of prestigious clubs likeEast Bengal,Dempo,Mumbai City FC, and currently,Bengaluru FC. It’s with Bengaluru that Chhetri truly flourished, lifting trophies like theI-League (2014, 2016),ISL (2019), andSuper Cup (2018). He even led them to theAFC Cup finalin 2016.
The Goal-Scoring Machine
While club success is impressive, Sunil Chhetri’s true magic lies in hisinternational exploits. He has been instrumental in India’s victories in theNehru Cup (2007, 2009, 2012)and theSAFF Championship (2011, 2015, 2021). Most significantly, his contribution to India’s2008 AFC Challenge Cup winsecured their firstAFC Asian Cupappearance in 27 years.
But it’s hisgoalscoring prowessthat sets Chhetri apart. Since his debut goal in 2002, he has amassed a staggering tally. With94 goalsin150 international appearances, he sits comfortably as thethird-highest active international goal-scorer, behind onlyCristiano Ronaldoof Portugal andLionel Messiof Argentina. This achievement places himfourth on the all-time list.
Milestones and Records
Chhetri’s international debut came in 2005, followed by his first goal against Pakistan. A defining moment arrived in the2011 SAFF Championship, where he surpassed Indian legendI.M. Vijayan’s recordof six goals in a single edition by scoring a phenomenal seven, propelling India to victory and becoming the national team’s highest scorer.
Across club and country, Chhetri’s goal tally stands at a remarkable252 in 515 appearances, averaging almost a goal every two games. This consistency and talent haven’t gone unnoticed. In 2022,FIFAhonoured him with a documentary titled “Captain Fantastic,” celebrating his journey and achievements.
Leaving a Lasting Legacy
As Sunil Chhetri prepares to bid farewell to international football, his legacy as one of India’sgreatest ever playersis firmly cemented. His dedication, leadership, and scoring prowess have inspired a generation of aspiring footballers and propelled Indian football to new heights on the global stage.
