Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri explained that his decision to announce his retirement from international football was driven more by mental factors than physical ones. Chhetri had announced on Friday that he will retire from international football after next month's World Cup qualifier against Kuwait. This decision marks the end of an illustrious 19-year career, during which Chhetri has established himself as India's top goal-scorer with 94 goals and the most-capped player in the country's history.
The 39-year-old explained, “The retirement decision was not because of physical aspect, I am still fit, running, chasing, defending, the hard work is not difficult, the reason is to do with the mental aspect,” he said during a virtual interaction. He refrained from delving into specifics regarding mental health, an issue that has increasingly gained attention among professional athletes.
Reflecting on his decision, Chhetri shared, “I was fighting with myself, trying to think holistically, it came instinctively. One year I will be in Bengaluru FC, I don't know how long I will be playing (domestic football), after that, I want to take a sabbatical.” His current contract with Bengaluru FC in the Indian Super League extends until next year.
Chhetri also touched upon his future plans, mentioning that while coaching is not immediately on his agenda, he is open to considering it during his sabbatical. “I will not say never, I will think during my sabbatical but it's not very high on my agenda as of now,” he said.
The iconic footballer, who has been a key figure in Indian football since the retirement of Bhaichung Bhutia, noted that he consulted India coach Igor Stimac before making his retirement decision public. “When I went to Stimac and told him about my retirement decision, he understood it,” Chhetri mentioned.
Additionally, Chhetri discussed his close relationship with Indian cricket star Virat Kohli, highlighting the support he received from him during this decision-making process. “He is very close to me, understands me,” Chhetri said, emphasising the camaraderie between the two sports personalities.
Sunil Chhetri retires: India's most-decorated footballer's records and historic feats
(With PTI inputs)