In the year 2024 on May 15th Sunil Chhetri who is the respected captain of the national team rocked the football arena by his retirement. The farewell message was delivered through a heart-warming video shared over various social media networks after 17 years of being part of it, hence leaving behind a lasting impression for both fans and colleagues. Thus, the end of an era characterized by unassailable success and continued commitment to this game has been marked by his exit.
Chhetri has been an incredible soccer player and he has played one hundred and thirty one games for his country. Even in his late thirties, Sunil is still considered to be one of the best forwards in the Indian Super League; this speaks volumes considering it’s an U23 competition with a salary cap that excludes players over thirty years old.
Additionally – with whom he has 84 international goals so far – Chhetri ranks as the world’s second-highest active scorer, currently only second to the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo. However, besides the numbers, he had some influence on the game in India that went beyond simply his playing statistics In a sense representing his country’s comeback at the international level, he was nicknamed “Captain Fantastic” due to great leadership qualities which made him an inspiration to other players as well as supporters with whom they shared moments characterized by astonishment and admiration
Chhetri’s career is adorned with memorable moments that have become synonymous with Indian football folklore. From his breathtaking solo goal against Pakistan in the 2013 SAFF Championship final to his historic hat-trick against Bhutan in the 2018 World Cup qualifiers, Chhetri consistently delivered when it mattered most, etching his name in the annals of Indian football history.
Also Read: Sunil Chhetri Retires: Indian Football Legend Ends Era
Chhetri’s exit means a time of change for Indian soccer, though he will remain in some capacity and direct the raw young soccer talent into best players. Furthermore, as a legend, he got many fans, violating many critics of his career especially on retirement.
Chhetri’s last international game against Kuwait on June 6, 2024 would mean so much to his fans since they will have a chance to say goodbye to one pious figure in Indian soccer. It will truly be a career come to end; yet Chhetri’s shattered records remain unbroken inspirational leadership unshaken unwavering passion undimmed by time so much so that his name will never be forgotten.
