Sunil Chhetri, one of Indian football's most iconic figures, stands as a testament to perseverance and determination. He is not only one of the all-time leading goal-scorers in the Indian Super League (ISL) but also ranks as the fourth-highest goal-scorer globally. Chhetri is both the most-capped player and the highest scorer in the history of the Indian national team.

With an impressive tally of goals for both club and country, Chhetri has long been the most prolific goal-scorer in Indian football history. He has earned numerous accolades, including the prestigious Arjuna Award and Padma Shri. But beyond his prowess on the field, Chhetri has been a reliable and inspirational captain. More often than not, he delivered for the team in crucial moments, single-handedly leading them to victory.

In June 2024, Chhetri made the heartfelt decision to retire from international football, marking the end of an illustrious career with his final match for India against Kuwait.

As the captain of the Indian football team, Chhetri became a torchbearer for a nation where football is still developing. He shared how his leadership role transformed his approach to the game.

“I was very self-centered before I was a captain," he said in an interview with ANI.

His leadership extended beyond the field, talking one his experiences as a captain he said “I was very self-centered before I was a captain. I only thought about myself, my shin pad, my sleep, my game, my role. When I became a captain, I started thinking more holistically about others. Behaviour, team dynamics. That is what changed in me periodically when I became a captain, and it helped me in my life also.”

At 40 years old, Chhetri is aging like fine wine. In October, the Bengaluru FC forward became the all-time league scorer, surpassing Bartholomew Ogbeche. Months later, he broke the record for being the oldest player in the league to net a hat-trick. He has scored eight goals this season and has been instrumental in Bengaluru FC’s quest for the Shield.

Chhetri revealed that he currently feels at his peak fitness despite announcing his retirement earlier this year.

“I know people think I'm delusional, but now (I feel at my peak). Physically, the way I feel now.. understanding people's emotions, with thinking that I'm just a small part of a bigger team, it's now. I'm more at peace. I'm more happier. I think I'm more calmer. I understand people more. I think I'm a better team player now.”

Chhetri stated there was nothing greater for him than representing his country on the international stage. He spoke about the unparalleled feeling of singing the national anthem while wearing the blue jersey.

He stated: “I stand and I sing the national anthem with pride (during an ISL game). But when you are with the national team, I don't know what happens. Singing the national anthem before the game for the country is an unparalleled feeling. It’s one of those moments where you feel, what is happening?”

When asked what makes him different from other players, he said: “One thing that I have which keeps me going is I really want this. I really want to be a player. I really want to play football. And in that department, there aren't many people who can fight with me in this world. Forget India. What I do, I genuinely love it, and I really go hard at it. That doesn't mean that I win every day. Doesn't mean that I'm the best. But I'll be at it, no matter what. It doesn't matter what's going on in my head, what's going in my life, I want to play it no matter”

Chhetri remains the most adored footballer in India and the face of Indian football. He has been a key figure for both club and country over the years, with even rival fans admiring him. Reflecting on the love and admiration he receives, Chhetri expressed his gratitude to India.

“I’m really pampered (by my family). The teams that I played for, they've always loved me. I've always been the litmus. I've always been the main guy. I've always been the most loved guy, so I'm really fortunate. I'm really fortunate for all these things and also that I'm in India. Also, the fact that I'm in this beautiful country because of the love that I've got and whatever I achieved wouldn't have been possible if I was anywhere else. So I'm really grateful,” he expressed.

Watch the full interview here: