Sunil Chhetri (born 3 August 1984) is an Indian footballer and the long-time captain of the national team. He is India’s most-capped player and all-time top scorer. With around 95 international goals, he ranks among the highest scorers in men’s international football, behind only Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Ali Daei. He was the first footballer to receive India’s top sporting honour, the Khel Ratna.
Quick Facts
| Full name | Sunil Chhetri |
| Born | 3 August 1984, Secunderabad, Telangana, India |
| Age | 42 |
| Position | Forward |
| Club | Bengaluru FC |
| International debut | 2005 v Pakistan |
| Spouse | Sonam Bhattacharya (m. 2017) |
| Honours | Arjuna Award (2011), Padma Shri (2019), Khel Ratna (2021) |
Early Life
Chhetri was born in Secunderabad. His father was an officer in the Indian Army, and his mother played football for Nepal’s women’s team. He grew up in Delhi and started his professional career with Mohun Bagan in 2002.
Career
Chhetri played for JCT, East Bengal and Dempo in India. He had spells abroad with Kansas City Wizards in Major League Soccer and Sporting CP’s reserve side in Portugal. Since 2013 he has been the face of Bengaluru FC, winning I-League titles, the 2018–19 Indian Super League and other trophies.
Chhetri scored on his India debut against Pakistan in 2005. He led India to the 2008 AFC Challenge Cup title, which qualified the team for the 2011 Asian Cup, and to several SAFF Championship and Intercontinental Cup wins. He was named AIFF Player of the Year a record number of times.
Chhetri retired from international football in June 2024 after a World Cup qualifier against Kuwait in Kolkata. In March 2025 he came out of retirement at the coach’s request to help India in Asian Cup qualifying. He has said he planned to end his professional career after the 2025–26 season.
Personal Life
Chhetri married Sonam Bhattacharya, daughter of the former Mohun Bagan coach Subrata Bhattacharya, in 2017. The couple have a son, born in 2023.
Major Achievements
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where was Sunil Chhetri born?
Sunil Chhetri was born on 3 August 1984 in Secunderabad, Telangana, India.
What honours has Sunil Chhetri received?
Arjuna Award (2011), Padma Shri (2019), Khel Ratna (2021).
