Who is Sunil Chhetri
Sunil Chhetri is a true legend of Indian football. From a young boy with a dream to becoming India’s greatest footballer, his journey is inspiring. His contributions to Indian football go beyond records and achievements. He has changed the way football is viewed in India and continues to be an icon for aspiring players.
Sunil Chhetri Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sunil Chhetri |
| Date of Birth | August 3, 1984 |
| Place of Birth | Secunderabad, Andhra Pradesh (now Telangana), India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Height | 5 ft 7 in (1.70 m) |
| Position | Forward / Striker |
| Current Club | Bengaluru FC (as of March 2025) |
| Youth Career | Started at City Club, Delhi |
| Professional Debut | 2002 – Mohun Bagan |
| International Debut | 2005 – India National Team |
| International Caps | 150+ (as of latest records) |
| International Goals | 94 (highest active international goal-scorer as of 2023) |
| Major Clubs Played For | Mohun Bagan, East Bengal, Dempo, Bengaluru FC, Sporting CP B (Portugal) |
| Notable Achievements | AFC Challenge Cup (2008), SAFF Championship (multiple), Nehru Cup (multiple) |
| Awards | Arjuna Award (2011), Padma Shri (2019), Khel Ratna (2021) |
| Spouse | Sonam Bhattacharya (married in 2017) |
| Playing Style | Known for leadership, goal-scoring ability, and versatility |
| Retirement Status | Active (as of March 2025) |
| Nickname | “Captain Fantastic” |
| Legacy | India’s all-time leading goal-scorer and most-capped player |
Early Life and Background
Sunil Chhetri was born on August 3, 1984, in Secunderabad, India. His father, K.B. Chhetri, was an officer in the Indian Army, and his mother, Sushila Chhetri, played football for the Nepal women’s national team. Football ran in his family, and he developed an interest in the sport from a young age.
He spent his childhood moving to different cities due to his father’s job. Despite these relocations, he remained focused on football. He completed his schooling at Bahai School in Gangtok and later attended Asutosh College in Kolkata.
Early Football Career
Sunil Chhetri began his football journey at a young age. He played in school tournaments and later joined City Club in New Delhi. His talent was quickly noticed, and he joined Mohun Bagan, one of India’s oldest football clubs, in 2002.
At Mohun Bagan, Chhetri showed his skills as a forward. His ability to score goals and create chances made him stand out. He played for Mohun Bagan from 2002 to 2005, scoring crucial goals for the team.
Professional Club Career
After leaving Mohun Bagan, Sunil Chhetri played for several Indian clubs. Some of the major clubs he played for include JCT, East Bengal, Dempo, Bengaluru FC, and Mumbai City FC. His performances were outstanding, and he became one of the top scorers in Indian football.
In 2009, Chhetri got a chance to play abroad when he signed with Kansas City Wizards in Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States. However, he did not get much playing time and returned to India. In 2012, he signed with Sporting CP’s reserve team in Portugal, gaining international experience.
Chhetri became the face of Bengaluru FC, where he played a crucial role in winning multiple Indian Super League (ISL) and I-League titles. His leadership and goal-scoring ability made him the captain and an inspiration for young players.
International Career
Sunil Chhetri made his debut for the Indian national team on June 12, 2005, against Pakistan. He scored in his first match, marking the beginning of a glorious international career.
Over the years, Chhetri became India’s all-time top goal scorer. He played in multiple SAFF Championships, AFC Asian Cup tournaments, and World Cup qualifiers. His famous hat-trick against Tajikistan in the 2008 AFC Challenge Cup helped India qualify for the AFC Asian Cup after 27 years.
Chhetri’s most iconic moment came in 2018 when he posted a heartfelt video on social media, urging fans to support Indian football. The response was overwhelming, and stadiums were packed for India’s matches. His dedication and passion for the sport earned him the nickname “Captain Fantastic.”
Comeback from Retirement
Indian football icon Sunil Chhetri has decided to come out of his international retirement to help the national team in the FIFA friendly assignment scheduled this month, the sport’s apex body in the country said on Thursday. Chhetri returns to the team, which he led for more than a decade, aged 40. “Sunil Chhetri is back. The captain, leader, legend will return to the Indian national team for the FIFA International Window in March,” the All India Football Federation (AIFF) wrote on its official ‘X’ handle.
Chhetri, who made his international debut in 2005 and left the scene as India’s all-time top scorer and most-capped player, has been included in coach Manolo Marquez’s list of 26 players for the March FIFA international window.
The move comes less than a year after he announced his retirement after a glorious career, leaving a huge void that is yet to be filled.
Having played at the top level until he was 39 years of age and ending his career as one of the game’s leading scorers with 94 international goals, Chhetri’s departure had made headlines with FIFA, world football’s global governing body, leading the outpouring of tributes for the talisman.
Playing Style and Strengths
Sunil Chhetri is known for his speed, dribbling, and goal-scoring ability. Despite not being the tallest striker, he makes up for it with his quick movement and sharp finishing. His leadership on the field has been a key factor in India’s success.
His ability to play as both a striker and winger makes him a versatile player. He is also known for his work ethic and discipline, inspiring many young footballers in India.
Achievements and Records
Sunil Chhetri has achieved numerous milestones in his career. Some of his major achievements include:
- India’s all-time leading goal scorer
- Most-capped player for the Indian national team
- Winner of multiple SAFF Championships and Nehru Cups
- Winner of I-League and Indian Super League titles with Bengaluru FC
- Named AIFF Player of the Year multiple times
- Among the highest goal scorers in international football alongside legends like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi
Awards and Honors
Sunil Chhetri has received several prestigious awards for his contribution to Indian football:
- Arjuna Award (2011) – for outstanding achievement in sports
- Padma Shri (2019) – India’s fourth-highest civilian award
- Khel Ratna Award (2021) – India’s highest sporting honor
These awards recognize his immense contribution to Indian football and his role in making the sport more popular in the country.
Impact on Indian Football
Sunil Chhetri has played a huge role in the growth of Indian football. His consistent performances, leadership, and passion have inspired countless young players. He has also encouraged fans to support Indian football more actively.
His influence extends beyond the field. He has worked on promoting the sport and improving the quality of football in India. His commitment has helped raise the standard of Indian football internationally.
Personal Life and Interests
Sunil Chhetri is known for his humble nature and disciplined lifestyle. He married his longtime girlfriend Sonam Bhattacharya, daughter of former Indian footballer Subrata Bhattacharya, in 2017. Despite his busy football schedule, he remains dedicated to his family.
Retirement and Legacy
Although Sunil Chhetri is still actively playing, discussions about his retirement have started. He has hinted that he wants to continue playing as long as his body allows. Even after retirement, he is expected to contribute to Indian football as a coach or mentor.
Sunil Chhetri FAQs
Who is Sunil Chhetri?
Sunil Chhetri is an Indian professional footballer and the captain of the India national team.
When was Sunil Chhetri born?
He was born on August 3, 1984.
Where is Sunil Chhetri from?
He is from Secunderabad, Telangana, India.
Which club does Sunil Chhetri play for?
He plays for Bengaluru FC as of March 2025.
How many international goals has Sunil Chhetri scored?
He has scored 94 goals (as of the latest records).
What position does Sunil Chhetri play?
He plays as a forward or striker.
Is Sunil Chhetri married?
Yes, he is married to Sonam Bhattacharya since 2017.
What is Sunil Chhetri’s nickname?
He is nicknamed “Captain Fantastic.”
Has Sunil Chhetri played abroad?
Yes, he played for Sporting CP B in Portugal.
What awards has Sunil Chhetri won?
He has won the Arjuna Award, Padma Shri, and Khel Ratna.
How tall is Sunil Chhetri?
He is 5 feet 7 inches (1.70 m) tall.
When did Sunil Chhetri make his international debut?
He debuted for India in 2005.
What is Sunil Chhetri’s biggest achievement?
Becoming India’s all-time leading goal-scorer and most-capped player.
Is Sunil Chhetri retired?
No, he is still active as of March 2025.
Why is Sunil Chhetri famous?
He is famous for his goal-scoring records and leadership in Indian football.
