Captain and veteran of the Indian football team, Sunil Chhetri, has decided to say goodbye to his glorious international career. The 39-year-old announced that the second round of World Cup qualification is coming up Kuwait June 6, which will be played at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, will be his last appearance for the national team.
In a heartfelt video shared on Instagram, Chhetri reflected on his journey, expressed his fondness for the Indian jersey and recalled the excitement of his unforgettable debut for the national team. With a mix of duty, pressure and joy, he described the rollercoaster ride that came with representing his country for 19 years. Chhetri revealed the surreal feeling of reaching the end of his career and reiterated his decision to retire after the upcoming match against Kuwait.
“You know, the feeling I remember over the last 19 years is a very nice combination of pressure of duty and great joy. I never thought individually, “These are the many games I played for the country, this is what I did, good or bad,” but now I’ve done it. The last month and a half, two months I’ve been doing it and it’s been very strange. I did it because I probably decided that this game, this next game, was going to be my last.” Chhetri said.
Virat Kohli’s special message for Chhetri
After Chhetri’s announcement, many celebrities and sports personalities expressed their warm wishes and expressed pride in his extraordinary career. Former Indian cricket captain, Virat KohliHe shared a heartwarming message for his close friend, expressing his admiration with a simple yet effective “My brother ❤️.” Proud.”
Kohli’s friendship with Chhetri is evident, which Kohli often invited him to do Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) Training sessions that showcase their camaraderie beyond their respective sports.
It was fun having you with us yesterday, skip 🤙 @chetrisunil11 #topguy #cricketmeetsfootball pic.twitter.com/sUzZ2xxAgF
– Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) March 20, 2019
Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri is retiring on June 6. 🥺
What a ride it was, Skipper! 94 international goals, so many laurels, an unwavering belief and you have inspired so many young Indians to dream big. ⚽️🫡
Happy farewell to No. 11, but India’s No. 1,… pic.twitter.com/s3hEuXFjq3
— Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) May 16, 2024
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Chhetri’s achievements in international football speak volumes as he holds the record for most goals thereafter Cristiano Ronaldo, Ali Daei And Lionel Messi. With 94 goals in 150 appearances for the country, his contribution to Indian football is unparalleled.
Even though he retires from international football, Chhetri will continue to play for the national team Indian Super League (ISL) with his presence representing Bengaluru FC. His professional journey began with Mohun Bagan in 2002, making him one of the top goalscorers in international football.
Meanwhile, Kohli will be seen in action Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) In the current Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. The match is scheduled to take place on Saturday (May 18) at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
Homage from a fellow athlete
Yuzvendra Chahal, a well-known cricketer known for his bowling skills, also paid tribute to Chhetri’s remarkable career, congratulating him and appreciating his incredible achievements. Next to Chahal, his bowling partner Kuldeep Yadav also congratulated the football legend on his remarkable career. Furthermore, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) paid a sincere tribute to Chhetri and recognized him as an icon not just of football but of Indian sports as a whole.
Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, India’s starting goalkeeper, also joined the chorus of voices celebrating Chhetri’s career, expressing both admiration and understanding for his decision to retire from international football. As the nation prepares to bid farewell to a football legend, Chhetri’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of aspiring athletes across the country.
What a run you had! 👏
Congratulations on a great career @chetrisunil11 ✨Happy retirement, legend 🫡 pic.twitter.com/eWnEm1W616
— Yuzvendra Chahal (@yuzi_chahal) May 16, 2024
Congratulations on a fantastic career legend👏🏻
I wish you all the best🤗♥️ https://t.co/xf0hHztcwS— Kuldeep Yadav (@imkuldeep18) May 16, 2024
Your career has been nothing short of extraordinary and you have been a phenomenal icon of Indian football and sports. Go well, captain! #TeamIndia https://t.co/g2a0yXRv5i
— BCCI (@BCCI) May 16, 2024
I never wanted this to happen. I wish I could do something to change your mind, but I also understand why it happens, bhai. The whole country must celebrate your international career on June 6th the way you deserve. My Captain https://t.co/L3Fd5buXk1
— Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (@GurpreetGK) May 16, 2024
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