India's Football Legend Sunil Chhetri Announces Retirement After Illustrious 20-Year Career

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) praised Chhetri's leadership, dedication and commitment to Indian football, saying his legacy on and off the field will always be remembered

Digital Desk: Sunil Chhetri, India's all-time leading goal scorer and most capped player, has announced his retirement from international football after a record-breaking career spanning two decades. The 39-year-old striker will play his final match for the national team against Kuwait on June 6 in a crucial World Cup qualifier.

Chhetri, who has scored 94 goals in 150 appearances for India, is the third-highest active international goal scorer behind only Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. He has been the face of Indian football for nearly 15 years and is considered a role model for the younger generation.

"It's time for our country to see the next number nine," Chhetri said in an emotional video announcing his retirement. "Will I be sad after this? Of course … the kid inside me never wants to stop if given a chance to play for his country."

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) praised Chhetri's leadership, dedication and commitment to Indian football, saying his legacy on and off the field will always be remembered. His Indian Super League club Bengaluru FC called him "a giant that walked amongst men" and a proper role model for many Indian kids dreaming of becoming football players.

Chhetri's retirement comes as India, ranked 121st in the world, struggles to find its footing in the sport among the 1.4 billion population where cricket remains the dominant obsession. Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter once referred to India as a "sleeping giant" of football.

Despite the challenges, Chhetri's illustrious career has inspired a new generation of Indian footballers. As he hangs up his boots, the nation bids farewell to one of its greatest sporting icons and looks to the future with hope of building on his remarkable legacy.