7 Unknown Facts About Sunil Chhetri You Didn’t Know 

In this article, we mention seven unknown facts about Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri you did not know 

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A legend, an inspiration, and a true leader – Sunil Chhetri is a national hero. Chhetri’s journey from a young boy with a passion for the sport to the most decorated player in Indian football history is inspirational. Sunil Chettri will play his last game for the FIFA World Cup’s qualifying match against Kuwait on June 6. 

7 Unknown Facts About Sunil Chhetri You Didn’t Know

Sunil Chhetri

  • Love Marriage

Sunil Chhetri has Married his childhood love, Sonam Bhattacharya, who is the daughter of his coach Subrata Bhattacharya. Both got married in 2017 and last year they welcomed a son – Dhruv.

Sunil Chhetri

  • Third-Highest Goal Scorer

After Cristiano Ronaldo (128) and Lionel Messi (108), Sunil Chhetri (93) is the most active international goalscorer in the world. Chhetri sits proudly as the third-highest active international goalscorer in the world.

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Sunil Chhetri

  • Almost a Premier League Player

Destiny had other plans, but Chhetri did have a shot at playing in the prestigious English Premier League. He had trials with Coventry Rangers and Queens Park Rangers (QPR) in the late 2000s. Unfortunately, work permit restrictions due to India’s FIFA ranking at that time prevented him from securing a permanent position.

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Sunil Chhetri

  • The Khel Ratna Award

In 2021, Sunil Chhetri became the only footballer to be conferred the prestigious Khel Ratna Award, India’s highest sporting honor. This recognition stands as a testament to his exceptional contribution to Indian football.

Sunil Chhetri

  • Musical Influence

Many might not know that Chhetri is a big fan of music. He is particularly fond of Nepali folk music and often finds inspiration in its melodies.

sunil chhetri

  • Charity Work

Beyond the field, Chhetri is actively involved in social work. He established the “Sunil Chhetri Foundation,” which works towards promoting and developing football amongst underprivileged children in India.

 

  • Diet Dedication

He wasn’t always health-conscious, but playing for Sporting Lisbon in Portugal turned him into a near-vegan who avoids sweets.