Sunil Chhetri, born on August 3, 1984, is not just a footballer, he’s an inspiration for a generation of Indian athletes. Here’s a glimpse into his remarkable journey
Early Life and Football Roots of Sunil Chhetri
- Born in Secunderabad, India, football was ingrained in his family.
- His father played for the Indian Army football team, while his mother was a former Nepali international player.
- Growing up as an army kid, Chhetri’s passion for football remained constant despite frequent school changes.
Education details of Sunil Chhetri
He did his schooling at Bahai School, Sikkim, and graduated from Asutosh College, Kolkata.
Family details of Sunil Chhetri
Father: K.B. Chhetri, an Indian Army football player and officer in the Corps of Mechanical and Electrical Engineers.
Mother: Sushila Chhetri, a former football player who played for Nepal’s women’s national team alongside her twin sister.
Sister: Bandana Chhetri
Sunil Chhetri’s wife is Sonam Bhattacharya. They got married in December 2017
Professional Career of Sunil Chhetri
- Despite initially choosing to enter college via football, Chhetri’s talent was evident.
- He started his professional career as a player for several Indian teams, including East Bengal and Mohun Bagan.
- His career was rounded out with stints in Major League Soccer in the USA and the second level of Portugal.
- He currently serves as captain of Bengaluru FC, a well-known Indian team.
International Glory of Sunil Chhetri
Club Career
- Appearances: ~365 (Estimated based on reported total goals)
- Goals: 158
- Leagues Played:
- India (Most Likely)
- Portugal (Second Tier)
- USA (Major League Soccer)
- Notable Clubs:
- Mohun Bagan
- East Bengal
- Bengaluru FC (Current Club)
- Dempo (I-League Champion 2009-10)
- Churchill Brothers (I-League Champion 2012-13)
- Sporting CP B (Portugal)
- Sporting Kansas City (USA)
International Career
- Appearances: 150 (Most Capped Player for India)
- Goals: 94 (All-Time Top Scorer for India)
- Active Player Ranking: 3rd Highest Goalscorer (Only behind Lionel Messi & Cristiano Ronaldo)
- Captain: Captain of the Indian National Team
- International Achievements:
- Nehru Cup Champion (2007, 2009, 2012)
- SAFF Championship Champion (2011, 2015, 2021, 2023)
- Intercontinental Cup Champion (2018, 2023)
- Tri-Nations Cup Champion (2023)
National Awards
- Arjuna Award (2011)
- Padma Shri (2019)
- Khel Ratna Award (2021)
Sunil Chhetri Net Worth ?
As of 2023, the Indian footballer’s net worth amounts to USD 1 million.
Sunil Chhetri got Married?
Sunil Chhetri got Married in 2017 his wife’s name is Sonam Bhattacharya Sonam is the daughter of the iconic footballer Subrata Bhattacharya, who was a member of the football team Mohun Bagan.
Which state from Sunil Chhetri?
Sunil Chhetri is from Secunderabad, Andhra Pradesh. Sunil Chhetri Was Born in 3 August 1984 in Secunderabad.
What position does Sunil Chhetri hold in the international football team?
He is presently the third-highest active player for his country, behind only Argentina’s Lionel Messi and Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo, with 94 goals.
Why is Sunil Chhetri retiring?
Sunil Chhetri posted a video on X (formerly Twitter), expressing that his decision to retire was not due to fatigue or any other personal reason. Instead, he wanted India to provide opportunities and nurture the young strikers who are ready to shine.
What is Sunil Chhetri Age?
39. Sunil Chhetri was born in 1984