Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri announces retirement, leaving fans and experts in awe
Sunil Chhetri, the third-highest scorer of international goals among active footballers, has announced his retirement in a heartfelt video post. In the nine-minute-51-second-long video, Chhetri reflected on the highs and lows of his illustrious career and expressed his decision with a heavy heart.
“The kid inside will probably keep fighting to play football, but the sensible, mature player and person knows that this is it,” Chhetri said. “But it wasn’t easy,” he added.
Tributes have been pouring in on social media, with fans expressing their gratitude for Chhetri’s immense contribution to Indian football. One fan described his retirement as the “end of an era” for Indian football, while another hailed him as an “all-time legend.”
Chhetri’s longevity in international football, coupled with his unmatched work ethic, has been credited as the key factors behind his success. The Indian football star has received numerous accolades in his career, including the Arjuna Award and the Padma Shri in India.
On the global stage, Chhetri has led the Indian team to victory in prestigious tournaments such as the AFC Challenge Cup and the Intercontinental Cup. His dedication to fitness and strict diet regimen have been well-documented, with Chhetri emphasizing the importance of making “small sacrifices” for success.
As Chhetri bids farewell to the game, the question on everyone’s mind is “After Chhetri, who?” The footballing world will undoubtedly miss the leadership and skill of this Indian football legend, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players.
