Indian football icon Sunil Chhetri has announced his decision to retire from international football following the FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Kuwait on June 6. The 39-year-old forward, revered for his exceptional contributions to Indian football, will bid farewell to the sport after an illustrious career spanning nearly two decades.
Chhetri, India’s all-time leading goal scorer with 94 goals, made the announcement through a heartfelt video shared on his social media accounts. His remarkable journey in football has left an indelible mark on the sport, earning him a place among the world’s top goal-scorers.
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His final match, slated to take place at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium, holds significant sentimental value as Chhetri has cherished many memorable moments on the field throughout his career, particularly in the city where he honed his skills.
Reflecting on his remarkable journey, Chhetri expressed gratitude for the unwavering support he received from fans and the joy he experienced while representing his country. He recalled fond memories of his debut match against Pakistan in 2005, highlighting it as a pivotal moment in his career.
Chhetri emphasized the importance of nurturing emerging talent and ensuring the continuity of India’s footballing legacy as he embarks on the final chapter. Despite bidding farewell to the sport at the international level, his influence and legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Indian footballers.
