Sunil Chhetri Shocks Fans with Emotional Retirement speech

Sunil Chhetri Shocks Fans with Emotional Retirement speech

Sunil Chhetri Shocks Fans with Emotional Retirement speech After WC qualifier against Kuwait said by Sunil chetri. Sunil Chhetri, often hailed as one of the greatest footballers in India, was born on August 3, 1984, in Secunderabad, Andhra Pradesh, India. His parents, both associated with sports, significantly influenced his early interest in athletics. His father, KB Chhetri, was an officer in the Indian Army, and his mother, Sushila Chhetri, played for the Nepal women’s national team.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Chhetri’s journey in football began at a young age. His initial training and passion for the sport were evident when he joined City Club in Delhi. His breakthrough came when he played for Mohun Bagan in 2002, where he started gaining national attention. His move to JCT FC in 2005 proved pivotal as he scored 21 goals in 48 matches, solidifying his reputation as a prolific striker.

Professional Career and Achievements

Chhetri’s professional career is marked by his tenure with various clubs both in India and abroad. After his successful stint with JCT, he briefly played for the Kansas City Wizards in Major League Soccer (MLS) in 2010, becoming one of the few Indian players to play outside South Asia. He also had short spells with Sporting CP’s reserve team in Portugal and several I-League teams like East Bengal and Mohun Bagan.

However, it was with Bengaluru FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) that Chhetri found a home. He has been instrumental in Bengaluru FC’s success, leading them to multiple league titles and an AFC Cup final. His leadership and goal-scoring prowess have made him an iconic figure in Indian football.

International Career

Chhetri’s international career is equally illustrious. He made his debut for the Indian national team in 2005 and quickly became a vital player. Over the years, he has led India to numerous victories, including three Nehru Cups (2007, 2009, 2012), the 2008 AFC Challenge Cup, and multiple SA

Sunil Chhetri, born on August 3, 1984, in Secunderabad, Andhra Pradesh, is a luminary in Indian football. With a career spanning nearly two decades, Chhetri has significantly impacted both domestic and international football. His journey from a young enthusiast to a national icon is inspiring and illustrates his dedication, skill, and leadership.

Early Life and Background

Chhetri was born into a family with a strong sporting background. His father, KB Chhetri, was an officer in the Indian Army, and his mother, Sushila Chhetri, played for the Nepal women’s national team. This athletic environment fostered his early interest in sports, particularly football. He spent his formative years in various cities across India due to his father’s postings, but his passion for football remained constant.

Chhetri’s initial foray into football began with City Club in Delhi, where he showcased his talent and caught the attention of scouts. His performance at the Asian School Championship in 2001 in Kuala Lumpur was a turning point, leading him to sign with Mohun Bagan in 2002. Here, he began to carve out his professional career, scoring important goals and establishing himself as a promising young player.

Professional Career

Chhetri’s professional career took off when he joined JCT FC in 2005. Over three seasons, he scored 21 goals in 48 matches, becoming one of the top strikers in the I-League. His performances earned him a move to the Kansas City Wizards in Major League Soccer (MLS) in 2010, making him one of the few Indian players to play abroad. Although his time in MLS was brief, it marked a significant step in his career.

Returning to India, Chhetri played for clubs like Chirag United, Mohun Bagan, and eventually Bengaluru FC in the Indian Super League (ISL). At Bengaluru FC, he truly flourished, leading the team to multiple league titles and an AFC Cup final. His goal-scoring ability and leadership were pivotal in the club’s success, making him an indispensable player.

International Career

Chhetri’s international career is distinguished and historic. He made his debut for the Indian national team in 2005 and quickly became a key player. His international accolades include winning the Nehru Cup three times (2007, 2009, 2012), the 2008 AFC Challenge Cup, and several SAFF Championships. His performance in these tournaments, particularly the 2008 AFC Challenge Cup where India qualified for the 2011 AFC Asian Cup, cemented his status as a national hero.

As of 2024, Chhetri is the third-highest international goal scorer among active players, behind only Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. He is also India’s most-capped player and all-time top scorer, with over 90 goals. His contributions have been instrumental in raising the profile of Indian football on the global stage.

Awards and Recognition

Chhetri’s contributions to football have been recognized with numerous awards. He has been named the AIFF Player of the Year a record seven times (2007, 2011, 2013, 2014, 2017, 2018-19, 2021-22) (Wikipedia) (Kreedon). In 2011, he received the Arjuna Award for outstanding sporting achievement, followed by the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award, in 2019. In 2021, he was honored with the Khel Ratna Award, India’s highest sporting honor, becoming the first footballer to receive it