Indian football luminary and national team captain, Sunil Chhetri, has declared his intention to retire from international football on June 6th.
In a heartfelt video shared on X, he revealed that the upcoming World Cup qualification match against Kuwait would mark his final appearance in national colors.
"One last match... for all of us... let's secure the victory and bid adieu with joy," he conveyed in the video.
Chhetri, aged 39, has devoted 19 years to representing his nation, netting his maiden goal during his debut in 2005.
Regarded as one of India's most revered athletes, he has illuminated Indian football on both domestic and global stages, amidst a cricket-dominated milieu. Currently, he holds the esteemed position as the third-highest scorer of international goals among active footballers, trailing only Argentina's Lionel Messi and Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo.
In his nearly ten-minute video on X, Chhetri reflected on the peaks and valleys of his illustrious career and expressed the poignant nature of his decision.
"While the inner child may persist in the fight to continue playing, the rational and seasoned athlete acknowledges that this is the culmination," he shared. "Yet, it was not a decision made lightly," he appended.
Tributes inundated X, with fans expressing deep appreciation for his monumental contributions to Indian football.
"'End of an era' may be an overused phrase in sports, but for Indian Football, it resonates profoundly. Sunil Chhetri - captain, luminary, legend - announces his retirement," one fan exclaimed.
"An enduring legend of Indian football," echoed another sentiment.
Admirers and pundits attribute Chhetri's enduring success in international football to his unwavering work ethic and remarkable longevity.
In India, he has garnered numerous football accolades, including the esteemed Arjuna Award and the Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian honor. Internationally, he has led his team to triumph in the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Challenge Cup, the South Asian Football Federation Championship, the Intercontinental Cup, and beyond.
Chhetri, renowned for his disciplined diet and rigorous fitness regimen, previously disclosed to the BBC the "modest sacrifices" he embraces.
"It boils down to dietary choices and adequate rest. Given the gratifying life bestowed upon me, it's a trifling matter to opt for broccoli over biryani - recognizing that indulgences can await post-retirement," he articulated.
With Chhetri hanging up his boots, the burning question on the minds of fans and players alike remains: "Who will step into Chhetri's formidable shoes?"