Indian football icon Sunil Chhetri announced he will retire from international competition after the upcoming World Cup qualifier against Kuwait. The match, set for June 6 in Kolkata, will conclude a remarkable 19-year tenure with the national team.
Chhetri has been a vital force in Indian football, celebrated as the nation’s all-time top scorer and most-capped player.
A Glorious Exit on the Field
Chhetri’s announcement came via a heartfelt video posted on his social media platforms, stunning fans and followers.
At 39, he has chosen to make the home game against Kuwait his final appearance, a strategic match since India, ranking second in Group A, needs a win to advance.
Reflecting on his career, Chhetri shared his mixed emotions. “The feel that I recollect in the last 19 years is a very nice combination of duty, pressure, and immense joy,” he said.
Despite the looming pressure of the qualifying game, Chhetri expressed a unique calm about his final days in uniform, focusing on enjoying the remaining time with his teammates.
An Illustrious Career to Remember
Since his debut in 2005, Chhetri has scored 94 goals for India, placing him third among active international goal scorers, just behind legends Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
This impressive tally includes his milestone 150th game for India in March against Afghanistan, in which he also scored.
This announcement marks the end of an era not just for Chhetri but for Indian football, where he has been a pillar of inspiration and achievement. His journey has not only been about personal milestones but also about advancing the sport in a cricket-dominated country.
The Final Match: High Stakes for Chhetri and India
The qualifier against Kuwait isn’t just a farewell match for Chhetri; it’s crucial for India’s aspirations to progress in the World Cup qualifiers. While the match promises high stakes, the captain’s presence is expected to be a motivational force for the team.
As fans prepare to bid farewell, the sentiment across the nation is bittersweet. Sunil Chhetri’s shoes will be hard to fill, given his contributions and leadership on and off the field. His retirement turns the page to a new chapter for Indian football, signifying a significant transition period.
Legacy and Future
Sunil Chhetri leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered in the annals of Indian and international football. His journey from a young talent to a national hero encapsulates a spirit of perseverance and dedication that will continue to inspire future generations.
As India prepares to watch Chhetri play one last time, the focus will also shift towards the future and building on the foundation that players like him have laid down.
The upcoming match will not just be a closure of one chapter but the beginning of another, where new talents will emerge under the shadow of greats like Chhetri.
