World unites to say goodbye to Sunil Chhetri

NEW DELHI: As the football world bid farewell to Sunil Chhetri, the Indian icon's retirement garnered global attention. FIFA, the sport's governing body, and Luca Modric, the Croatian superstar, joined forces with cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar to pay tribute to Chhetri, making his farewell a truly international affair.
Chhetri hung up his boots as the fourth-highest goalscorer in international football history, having netted an impressive 94 goals in 151 appearances for his country. This remarkable achievement is all the more significant considering India's ongoing struggle to establish itself as a force in the global football arena.
In his swansong match wearing the blue jersey, Chhetri's India played out a goalless draw against Kuwait in the 2026 World Cup Qualifier held in Kolkata, bringing the curtain down on an illustrious career that has left an indelible mark on Indian football.
"After 19 years of service, farewell, @chetrisunil11," FIFA posted on X moments after the match at the packed Salt Lake Stadium.

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) tweeted, "94 International Goals. Carried the hopes of a nation! Thank You Asian Football Icon, Sunil Chhetri."
Sachin Tendulkar, a renowned figure in Indian cricket, took to the social media platform X to express his heartfelt congratulations to Sunil Chhetri: "No goal is easy to achieve. Let alone 94 international ones. You've held the flag high, Sunil Chhetri. Congratulations on a remarkable career!"

Premier League India wrote on the social media platform, "Every football fan today. We cannot replace him. We cannot."

Former India hockey captain Viren Rasquinha also praised Chhetri for his remarkable career.
"I think what makes Sunil Chhetri a legend is not just the goals he scored for India and the longevity of his career. It's also his teamwork, never say die attitude, work ethic & leadership. But most importantly, his role model behaviour. We need more Sunil Chhetri's in Indian Sport," Rasquinha tweeted.
"Having said all the nice things about Chhetri, Im really worried about Indian football. That was a painful 90 mins to watch. We were slow, uninspiring, barely a shot on the Kuwait goal. Struggling to string 4 passes together. Plenty of introspection needed for a game we all love," he added.
On the night, every Indian Premier League (IPL) team honored Chhetri, acknowledging his unparalleled status in Indian football.
Earlier in the day, Croatia captain and Real Madrid superstar Modric hailed Chhetri, brought the curtains down on his stellar career with the match against Kuwait on Thursday, as a "legend of the game".
In a video message shared by Indian team's coach Igor Stimac, Modric said, "Hi Sunil, I just want to say hello and wish you all the best in your last game for the national team."
"Congratulations on your career, you are a legend of this game and to your teammates, I hope you make his last game special and unforgettable," said Modric, the 2018 Ballon d'Or winner.
"Good luck and win for your captain. All the best and best regards from Croatia," said Modric who finished runner-up in the 2018 World Cup and grabbed the bronze medal in 2022.
With 94 goals, Chhetri retired as the fourth highest in the all-time list of goal-scorers in international football behind Cristiano Ronaldo (128), Ali Daei (108) and Lionel Messi (106).
(With PTI inputs)