Sunil Chhetri is a?legendary?footballer in India, admired for his skill, dedication, and leadership. The world joined together on Thursday to say goodbye to Sunil Chhetri, with FIFA, Croatian great Luka Modric, and cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar paying heartfelt tribute to the Indian football icon, Sachin posted on X, ¡°No goal is easy to achieve. Let alone 94 international ones. ¡°You've held the flag high, Sunil Chhetri. Congratulations on a remarkable career!¡±. At 39, Chhetri retired as the fourth-highest scorer in international football, with 94 goals from 151 matches. This is a remarkable feat for a player from a country still finding its place in global football.
On May 16, in a heartfelt video shared on social media, the legendary Indian footballer revealed that his final game for the Indian national team would be the World Cup qualification match against Kuwait. This announcement marks the end of a stellar 19-year international career, during which Sunil Chhetri became a symbol of Indian football excellence.
As fans across the country reflect on his incredible journey, we take a closer look at his achievements, net worth, and the luxurious lifestyle he enjoys. Let's celebrate Sunil Chhetri, a true legend whose impact on Indian football will be remembered for years to come.
The match between India and Kuwait, which ended in a 0-0 draw at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Stadium in Salt Lake, Kolkata, wasn't the ideal end to Chhetri's brilliant career. Despite the result, Chhetri's farewell was grand, with 58,000 fans giving him a standing ovation. As India's most-capped and most successful player, Chhetri's departure was emotional, with fans and teammates hoping for a more victorious send-off.
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Sunil Chhetri's retirement is a significant moment for Indian football. Over his career, Chhetri has made 150 appearances for the national team, scoring an impressive 94 goals. This makes him India's all-time leading goal-scorer and the world's fourth-highest goal-scorer after Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo (128 goals), Iran's Ali Daei (108 goals) and Argentina's Lionel Messi (106 goals).
Chhetri's influence extends beyond his goal-scoring achievements. He has played a crucial role in elevating the popularity and development of football in India. His efforts have helped India climb the FIFA rankings and qualify for prestigious tournaments like the Asian Cup, marking key milestones in the sport's history in the country.
Throughout his career, Sunil Chhetri often hailed as the 'Messi of Indian football,' has been honoured with numerous awards. He received the Arjuna Award in 2011, India¡¯s second-highest sporting honour, and the Padma Shri in 2019., one of the highest civilian awards in India. Chhetri has also been named the AIFF Player of the Year seven times, showcasing his consistent excellence and impact on Indian football.
Off the field, Chhetri has achieved significant financial success. The net worth of Sunil Chhetri is estimated to be around Rs 8 crore, according to GQ India. His wealth comes from his football salary, lucrative endorsements, and smart business ventures. Chhetri has endorsement deals with major brands like Puma, Pepsi, and Tata Motors, each reportedly worth around Rs 1 crore.
Also Read:?A Footballer Born In A Land Of Cricket - The Tragedy Of Being Sunil Chhetri
Chhetri¡¯s involvement in the Indian Super League (ISL), especially with Bengaluru FC, has been financially rewarding. As one of the highest-paid players in the league, he has made significant contributions both on and off the field, solidifying his status as one of India's most influential athletes.
Sunil Chhetri's financial success has enabled him to enjoy a luxurious lifestyle. His home in Bengaluru, valued at Rs 2.5 crore and spanning 7,000 square feet, showcases his taste for luxury and comfort. Additionally, Chhetri's car collection includes high-end models like the Audi Q5, Mercedes Benz GLC, and Toyota Fortuner, reflecting his love for style and sophistication.
Sunil Chhetri's retirement marks the end of an era in Indian football. His remarkable achievements, both on and off the field, have left an indelible mark on the sport in India. As fans bid farewell to this iconic figure, Sunil Chhetri's legacy as the 'Messi of Indian football' will continue to inspire future generations of footballers. His journey from a young football enthusiast to a national hero exemplifies dedication, hard work, and passion for the game.
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