Sunil Chhetri, captain of the Indian national football team and Kolkata FC, announced his retirement, marking the end of a long and successful career. Known for his goal-scoring ability, leadership, and good manners, Chhetri has been a key figure in Indian football for many years.
Chhetri has significantly influenced Indian sports, popularizing football in a cricket-dominated country. He holds records for the most goals scored and most games played for the national team.
Chhetri played a crucial role in India's football successes, including four Nehru Cups, five South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Championships, and the 2008 AFC Challenge Cup, which led to India’s first AFC Asian Cup qualification in 27 years.ome text
Chhetri has received numerous accolades, including seven AIFF Male Player of the Year awards, the Arjuna Award (2013), the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award (2021), and the Padma Shri (2019). FIFA honored him with a documentary titled "Captain Fantastic" in 2022.
Debuting at 17 with Mohun Bagan in 2002, Chhetri became the third Indian to play outside South Asia by joining Kansas City Wizards in 2010. He was the first Indian to score 50 and then 75 international goals, and he has also been active in brand endorsements and promoting Indian football.