Sunil Chhetri Retires: A Look At Indian Football Legend's Career

Sunil Chhetri took to social media to announce his retirement from international football on May 16 (Thursday).

He is set to play his last international match for India on June 6 in the India vs Kuwait FIFA World Cup Qualifiers match.

Chhetri has enjoyed an illustrious career spanning 19 years.

Chhetri made his debut for India back in 2005 on June 12 in a match against Pakistan.

Chhetri, with 94 goals in 150 matches, ranks as the third most prolific scorer in international football among active players, trailing only Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, and fourth overall.

In 2011, Chhetri was bestowed with the Arjuna Award, followed by the Padma Shri in 2019. In 2021, he made history as the first footballer to be awarded the Khel Ratna.

Chhetri began his professional career with Mohun Bagan in 2002, and remained with one of the most illustrious clubs in Indian football history until 2005.

Chhetri’s career extended beyond Indian borders as he also had stints with the USA's Major League Soccer club Kansas City Wizards in 2010 and Portugal's Sporting CP from 2012 to 2013.

All Image Credits: Getty