Indian football team captain Sunil Chhetri has announced his retirement from the game. On Chhetri’s announcement, his close friends Virat Kohli and veteran all-rounder Yuvraj Singh sent him special messages. Chhetri, who has captained the national team for many years, announced his retirement on June 6 after the FIFA World Cup qualifier against Kuwait in Kolkata.
Reacting to a video posted on Sunil Chhetri’s Instagram, Virat Kohli, calling him a good friend, wrote, “Proud of you, my brother. 150 national matches will remain intact for a long time.” On his Instagram Story, Kohli added, “A true legend of the game who brought Indian football to the global stage. Your passion has inspired a generation to embrace the game. Your legacy in Indian sports will always be remembered. You can look back with pride now that you’re ready to play your farewell match. Thank you, Legend.”
Cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal, a member of the Indian team for the T20 World Cup, wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “What a great journey you had. Congratulations on a wonderful career.” Chhetri’s club Bengaluru FC and fellow Indian team goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu wrote on X, “Never wanted to see this happen. I wish I could do something to change your mind, but bro, I understand why this is happening. My captain, the whole country should celebrate your international career on June 6 as you deserve.”
The All India Football Federation said that Chhetri will continue to inspire future generations. “Your legacy on and off the field will always be remembered. You always inspire us and will continue to do so. Thank you,” said the federation. The Indian Cricket Board called Chhetri a “fantastic icon,” stating, “Your career has been extraordinary, and you are a wonderful icon for Indian football and Indian sports.”
India spinner Kuldeep Yadav wished Chhetri all the best, acknowledging his brilliant career. The Indian Premier League franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore saluted Chhetri’s number 11 jersey, saying, “Captain, what a journey you have had. 94 international goals and numerous achievements, you have inspired many young Indians to dream big. Goodbye to the number 11 jersey, but India’s number one captain.”
