Football

Sunil Chhetri's retirement from international football marks the end of an era for Indian football. The diminutive forward, who played for India for nearly 19 years, is the nation's all-time leading scorer with 94 goals in 151 appearances.Chhetri's longevity and consistency are remarkable. He made his international debut in 2005, when Indian football was still a niche sport. Over the years, he became a household name, leading the national team to numerous victories and inspiring a generation of young players.Chhetri's greatness lies not only in his goal-scoring prowess but also in his leadership and unwavering commitment to the team. He was the captain for 12 years, carrying the nation's hopes on his shoulders. His ability to motivate and inspire his teammates was instrumental in India's success.Despite his individual brilliance, Chhetri always put the team first. He was a selfless player who was willing to sacrifice his own glory for the greater good. His humility and dedication made him a role model for both his teammates and fans.Off the field, Chhetri was a fitness fanatic. He worked tirelessly to maintain his peak physical condition, even as he approached the twilight of his career. His relentless pursuit of excellence inspired his teammates to push themselves harder.Chhetri's retirement leaves a void in Indian football. He was not only a great player but also a symbol of hope and inspiration for the nation. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Indian footballers.

Sunil Chhetri, the legendary Indian football captain, has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to an illustrious career spanning over two decades. Chhetri's 150 appearances for India were marked by exceptional skill, leadership, and an unwavering passion for the game.Throughout his career, Chhetri's goals were not merely statistics but thunderbolts that ignited a nation's spirit. His 94 international goals propelled India to greater heights, inspiring young players and captivating fans across the country.Chhetri's retirement has sent shockwaves through the Indian football community. For Tejas, a 15-year-old Bengaluru FC supporter, Chhetri was more than just a player; he was a role model who instilled in him a love for the game. "Seeing him play gives me motivation to be better," Tejas said. "My heart broke when I heard of his retirement."Amruth Kiranji, head coach of the academy at South United Football Club, praised Chhetri's longevity and fitness. At 40 years of age, Chhetri's unwavering dedication to the sport is a testament to his exceptional physical and mental strength.Chhetri's impact extended beyond the national team. As a key player for Bengaluru FC, he led the club to three major titles, including the I-League and Indian Super League. His most memorable performance for BFC came in the AFC Cup semifinal against Johor Darul Ta'zim, where he scored a brace to secure a historic victory for the Indian club.As Chhetri's career comes to a close, the question arises: who will fill the void he leaves behind? Anup Menon, a BFC season-pass holder, believes it will be a long and challenging task. "There is a huge void to fill," Menon said. "After Chhetri, I do not see anyone being that recognizable a face."Despite Chhetri's remarkable achievements, India remains outside the top 100 in FIFA rankings and has never qualified for the World Cup. Pranav Trehan, CEO of SUFC, emphasizes the need for more players of Chhetri's caliber to elevate Indian football to new heights. "In order for football to grow in this nation, we would need at least 20 more Chhetris in our squad," Trehan said.As Sunil Chhetri bids farewell to international football, his legacy will continue to inspire generations of Indian footballers. His unwavering determination, exceptional skill, and love for the game have left an indelible mark on the sport in India.