Sunil Chhetri announces retirement: A timeline of his journey, achievments, awards and more
Sunil Chhetri, the legendary player from Indian football who began playing for his country in 2005, formally announced his retirement from international football.
He will play his final game for India on June 6th, at Kolkata, during the FIFA World Cup qualifier for 2026, against Kuwait. Chhetri, who is 39 years old and has the most appearances and goals for the Indian national team, is regarded as one of the best football players in the country.
Chhetri is third among active players globally in terms of goals scored for his country, only behind Messi and the Cristiano Ronaldo.
How Sunil Chhetri’s journey began?
Chhetri's journey began in the nation's capital 19 years ago, when he served as City Club Delhi's representative from 2001 to 2002.
Chhetri was selected to captain the Indian football team by former star striker Bhaichung Bhutia, who handed over the reins to him during his illustrious career.
With a goal against Pakistan in June 2005, Chhetri made a dramatic debut on the international scene and went on to become the first Indian player to rank among the top 10 goal scorers in history.
After leaving Mohun Bagan to join JCT in 2002, Chhetri started his professional career there and scored 21 goals in 48 appearances. In the 59th Santosh Trophy, which was played in Delhi, Sunil was a member of the Delhi squad. In the competition, he scored six goals, including a hat-trick against Gujarat. In the quarterfinals, Delhi was defeated by Kerala, and he also scored in that game. In 2010, he joined with the Kansas
