Sunil Chhetri bids emotional farewell to international football, thanking fans for their support over his illustrious 19-year career.
Chhetri, with tears in his eyes, received a guard of honor from teammates at Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata, amid a standing ovation from the packed crowd. Expressing gratitude, he credited fans, teammates, and supporters for his success, emphasizing that his achievements wouldn’t have been possible without them. Chhetri, India’s leading goal-scorer with 94 goals, retired after the FIFA World Cup qualifier match against Kuwait. He was honored by the All India Football Federation and thanked the crowd in Bengali, urging them to stay happy and healthy. Chhetri’s retirement marks the end of an era in Indian football, where he played a pivotal role in numerous victories, including triumphs at the Nehru Cup and SAFF Championships, as well as qualification for the AFC Asian Cup.
Sunil Chhetri’s farewell from international football was an emotional moment for fans and players alike, marking the end of an era in Indian football. As he walked off the pitch for the last time, Chhetri’s tears reflected the deep gratitude he felt towards everyone who had been part of his remarkable journey. Throughout his illustrious 19-year career, Chhetri’s impact on Indian football was immense. His dedication, skill, and leadership inspired a generation of players and fans, leaving an indelible mark on the sport in the country. As India’s highest goal-scorer and the fourth-highest goal-scorer in international football, Chhetri’s legacy is secure.
The guard of honor from his teammates and the standing ovation from the packed Salt Lake Stadium were fitting tributes to his stellar career. Chhetri’s humility and sincerity shone through as he thanked fans, teammates, and supporters, acknowledging their role in his success. As Chhetri embarks on the next chapter of his life, his influence on Indian football will endure. His leadership both on and off the field set a standard for future generations to aspire to, and his contributions to the sport will be remembered fondly for years to come.