In a poignant moment for Indian football, Sunil Chhetri, the long-serving captain of the national team, announced his decision to retire from international football. The announcement came on Thursday via a heartfelt video posted on his social media accounts, marking the end of a stellar two-decade career. Chhetri will play his final game for India against Kuwait in the FIFA World Cup qualifying match in Kolkata on June 6.
India currently stands second in Group A with four points, trailing behind leaders Qatar. This upcoming match is crucial for the team’s qualification prospects, adding to the emotional weight of Chhetri's last appearance.
Reflecting on his journey, the 39-year-old footballer said, "The feel that I recollect in the last 19 years is a very nice combination of duty, pressure and immense joy." He elaborated on his feelings leading up to the announcement, "I never thought individually these are the games I've played for the country, this is what I've done good, I've done bad. But, now I did it, this last one-and-a-half two months. It felt very strange. I did it because I was going towards the decision that the next game was going to be my last."
Chhetri's farewell message highlighted his intent to savor his remaining days with the national team. "Every training that I do with the national team, I just want to enjoy. The game against Kuwait demands pressure, we need the three points to qualify for the next round. It's hugely important for us. But in a strange way, I don't feel the pressure because these 15-20 days with the national team and the match against Kuwait is the last," he shared.
Chhetri made his 150th appearance for India in March, scoring against Afghanistan in Guwahati, although India lost that game 1-2. His illustrious career began in 2005, and over the years, he has scored 94 goals for the country, making him India's all-time top scorer and most-capped player. Notably, Chhetri ranks third among active international goal scorers, following global superstars Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
As Chhetri prepares to hang up his boots, his legacy as a pivotal figure in Indian football is assured. His contributions have not only elevated the sport in India but also inspired countless young athletes. The match against Kuwait will undoubtedly be an emotional and significant farewell for a player who has given so much to the game and his country.
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