Sunil Chhetri, revered as the captain of India's national football team, has formally announced his retirement. After his last appearance in the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier against Kuwait, the 39-year-old forward concludes his illustrious career, leaving behind a legacy that has deeply inspired numerous fans and athletes.
Sunil Chhetri's retirement marks the end of an era in Indian football. With an outstanding record of 94 international goals amassed over more than two decades, Chhetri stands as a revered figure in Indian football history. His journey, marked by perseverance and excellence, has set a benchmark for future generations of footballers.
From celebrities to sports icons, tributes have flooded in, acknowledging his remarkable contributions to the sport. Arjun Kapoor, a dedicated football enthusiast, took to Instagram to express his admiration for Sunil Chhetri. The actor shared a heartfelt message alongside a picture of Chhetri, marking the end of an era. "Thank you, Sunil Chhetri, for the memories, the passion, and the unmatched dedication," Kapoor wrote. His words encapsulate the sentiments of many fans who have followed Chhetri's career and witnessed his unwavering commitment to the sport.
Similarly, actor Abhishek Bachchan honoured Chhetri with a touching Instagram post. Bachchan shared an image of Chhetri standing in the stadium, hands folded in gratitude, wearing his iconic football jersey. In his tribute, Bachchan lauded Chhetri’s exemplary career and leadership, stating, "Congratulations Cap on such a legendary career! It has been an honor to see you play for the country and lead by example." He further praised Chhetri as "one of the greatest Indian sportsmen ever," a sentiment echoed by many in the sporting community.
Joining the chorus of accolades, legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar also paid homage to Chhetri. Tendulkar shared a photograph of Chhetri bidding farewell after his final match, accompanied by a commendatory message. "No goal is easy to achieve. Let alone 94 international ones," Tendulkar remarked, highlighting the monumental nature of Chhetri’s achievements. He added, "You’ve held the flag high, Sunil Chhetri."
Sunil Chhetri's retirement marks the conclusion of a stellar international career. As the fourth-highest goal scorer in the world, trailing only behind legends like Cristiano Ronaldo, Ali Daei, and Lionel Messi, Chhetri's contributions to football are unparalleled. His journey, marked by perseverance and excellence, has set a benchmark for future generations of footballers.
As Chhetri steps away from international football, his legacy will continue to inspire and influence aspiring athletes. His dedication, passion, and unmatched skill have left an indelible mark on the sport, ensuring that his name will be remembered for generations to come.
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