Introduction about Sunil Chhetri:
Let us dive into the inspiring story of Sunil Chhetri. He is the talismanic captain of the Indian national football team. This blog post provides more details on his illustrious career, accomplishments, and the impact he has made on Indian football.
Description:
Sunil Chhetri, India’s football hero, boasts an impressive career spanning over two decades. As the all-time leading goal-scorer for the Indian national team, his ability on the field is simply matches no one else. We shall explore the early life and beginnings of this football icon. We will also trace his journey from youth leagues to international stardom, Finally, we will try to understand his significant role in popularizing the game of football in a cricket-dominated nation.
FAQs about Sunil Chhetri:
When and where was Sunil Chhetri born?
He was born on August 3rd, 1984, in Secunderabad, Andhra Pradesh (now in Telangana), India.
Who are his parents?
His father’s name is KB Chhetri and his mother is Sushila Chhetri.
Can you provide details about his early life?
His early life involved a passion for football from a young age. It led him to pursue a career in the sport.
What are his educational qualifications?
He studied at the Bahai School in Sikkim and the Loyola School in Kolkata. Later, he went on to graduate from the Ashutosh College in Kolkata.
Who is his spouse and do they have children?
He is married to Sonam Bhattacharya. They have a son.
How did he start playing football?
He started playing football at a young age. His father, who was in the Indian Armed Forces, inspired him.
Did he face any initial struggles in his football career?
He faced challenges however his talent led him to overcome obstacles. Eventually he started making a name for himself in the domestic football circuit in India.
Which clubs has he played for in the past?
He has played for notable clubs like Mohun Bagan, JCT, East Bengal, Sporting Lisbon B and Mumbai FC. Presently, he plays for the Bengaluru FC in the Indian Super League.
Playing For India, Awards, FIFA Recognition, Net Worth.
How did he get selected to play for the Indian national team?
His consistent performances in domestic leagues earned him a spot in the national team which marked the beginning of his international career.
When did he become the captain of the Indian national team?
He became the captain of the Indian national team in 2011 after showcasing regular and consistent performances for club and country.
What awards and recognitions has he received through his career?
He has received numerous awards, including the AIFF Player of the Year seven times. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 2019 and the Khel Ratna Award in 2021.
Does he have a favourite footballer and club?
Lionel Messi is his favourite footballer. His favourite club is Mohun Bagan.
Has he received any national awards for his achievements?
The Government of India has awarded him the Arjuna Award.
What is his net worth?
Sunil Chhetri’s net worth is reported to be in the range of USD$ 3 million dollars OR INR 25 Crores as of 2023.
Has FIFA recognized him for his achievements?
FIFA has acknowledged Sunil Chhetri for his remarkable achievements through a three-episode series named “Captain Fantastic”. He is the third highest goal scoring international footballer behind Ronaldo and Messi.
Is he involved in any philanthropic activities?
He actively supports numerous charitable causes and involves himself in initiatives for promoting football at the grassroots level.
When did he start playing football professionally?
He began his professional career in 2002 with Mohun Bagan.
How many goals has he scored for the Indian national team?
He has scored over 90 goals for the Indian national team (as of Dec 2023 statistics).
Sporting Lisbon Reserves, Position On Field And Advice For Young Footballers.
Has he played for any international clubs?
He played for Sporting Lisbon B in Portugal in the year 2012.
How did his interest in football develop during his childhood?
His interest in football grew through playing the sport with his friends and watching local matches with his father.
What position does he play on the field?
He primarily plays as a centre forward for both club and country.
How did his fame contribute to the growth of football in India?
Sunil Chhetri’s success and stardom have significantly contributed to the increased popularity and recognition of football in India. More kids and teenagers are now picking up the sport as a career over the past few years.
Can you provide details about his early training and coaching?
He received early training at the Tata Football Academy.
How did he feel when he surpassed Lionel Messi in international goals?
He expressed humility and gratitude for his achievement. He emphasized the team’s efforts and the support of Indian football fans.
Which international tournaments has he participated in with the Indian national team?
He has represented India in multiple editions of the AFC Asian Cup, the SAFF Championship and the World Cup Qualifiers.
How does he balance his family life with his football career?
Sunil Chhetri emphasizes the help of his family and credits them for providing a strong foundation that enables him to focus on his football career.
What advice does he have for aspiring young footballers in India?
He encourages young footballers to work hard, stay disciplined, and always believe in their abilities.
Bengaluru FC, Intercontinental Cup And Most Memorable Goal.
How did he contribute to Bengaluru FC’s success in the Indian Super League (ISL)?
He played a pivotal role in Bengaluru FC’s success, leading the team to an ISL title in the 2018-19 season. He has consistently delivered standout performances for the club.
How did he feel about winning the Hero of the Intercontinental Cup multiple times?
He has expressed pride and a sense of personal satisfaction in winning the Hero of the Intercontinental Cup.
What does he consider his most memorable goal in his career?
He considers his goal against Myanmar in the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers as one of the most memorable moments of his career.
What are his future aspirations in football after retirement?
He has expressed interest in contributing to Indian football post-retirement, possibly through coaching or administrative roles.
Fun Facts about Sunil Chhetri-
- His house is located in a prime locality in Bengaluru and is spread over an area of over 7000 square feet.
- He represents several brands as their ambassador and has been part of the ad-campaigns for Puma, Tata Motors and Acer, among other brands.
- He owns a chain of restaurants in Bengaluru named “The Three Floors”.
- He also owns a sports management company by the name KISMAT.
- His collection of luxury cars includes an Audi A6 and a Toyota Fortuner, among others.
Conclusion:
Sunil Chhetri’s impact on Indian football is big. From his early days in the sport to becoming an Asian football icon, his journey is a tribute to his skill, determination, and passion for the beautiful game. As he continues to break records and inspire future generations, Sunil Chhetri remains a symbol of stardom in Indian football. Dear readers, you may read some of our other blogs from the “Home” page on our website. Our blogs are available in over 20 different languages.
