For most athletes, retirement is a full stop. For Sunil Chhetri, it was merely a comma. The boy who once handed out pamphlets to auto drivers, urging them to attend his club’s matches, now walks into packed stadiums with chants of his name echoing across the stands. Thirteen years in Bengaluru. Countless goals. A heartfelt fare well to the national jersey, followed by an emotional return. His story is less about statistics and more about an enduring, stub born love for the sport. As Bangalore Times Headliner, Sunil speaks to us about finding a home in the city, returning from retirement, and also embracing fatherhood. Excerpts: You have spent over 13 years in Bengaluru. What drew you to the city in the first place, and how has your relationship with it grown over time? The first choice wasn’t to settle here; it was about the club. They spoke about running it in a proper, professional way. It was a diffi cult decision because things were easier where I was. But I followed my gut. Within a couple of years, I realised this was an amazing place. Every year, my love for the club and the city grew. I can’t point to one specific moment — it happened gradually. With every passing year, I felt more comfortable and happier. And suddenly, it’s been 13 years.How does it feel to hear young players say they picked up football because of you? I’ve been fortunate to receive so much love. But the most satisfying thing is when a youngster says they picked up football because of me. That gives me immense happiness. If I can encourage even a few kids, that’s amazing.This past year marked a major turning point — you stepped away from international football and then chose to return. What was that period like for you emotionally and mentally? I was very content when I retired. I didn’t want to come back. The game against Ku wait in Kolkata, where I got the send-off, I was done. Mentally, I was happy. I knew I had given everything. But I was having a decent year at the club, and the coach called to say the team needed me — not just for goals, but for guidance. My first instinct was to say no. The sensible answer was no. But he asked me to take a few days. I don’t know what switch went on, but I think the child inside me won. I followed my gut and said yes. One of the reasons was to qualify for the Asian Cup, which we didn’t. So yes, it feels like a loss. But I have no regrets — not for the 19 years I played for the country, and not for the short stint after coming back. Ninety-nine per cent of people told me not to do it, and they were probably right. But I followed my gut, and I’m at peace with it.Even after stepping away from international football, your discipline never seemed to waver. What drives you to maintain that standard, even away from the spotlight? It isn’t difficult because this is the life I’ve always known. On paper, it looks like sacri fice, but I enjoy it. When I retired from the national team, I was still playing for the club, so not training wasn’t an option and the routine remained. At the core of it, I just love sports. Even when I’m done with football, I’ll still play something — badmin ton, pickleball, anything. After 40, the body has its limitations. But if you’re smarter and more mature, you can manage it.Bengaluru is known for its passionate supporters and you’ve been part of that journey from day one. What would you like to say to fans who have stood by you and the club all these years? They’re amazing. When we started 13 years ago, our coach, our PR guy, and I would go around handing out pamphlets to auto driv ers and shopkeepers, asking them to attend our matches. From there to where we are today, it’s unbelievable. This city is open to new things — not just in sport, but in cul ture too. The fans have been incredible. It’s been a special bond, and I hope it continues to grow.Over the course of your career, how have you seen football in India change and grow?There’s been a huge jump in awareness. When we were young, we didn’t know the pathway to professional football. Now, if you ask any kid, they can tell you which academy to join, which trials to attend, and the lev els to progress through. The knowledge is miles ahead of what it used to be. Of course, that also brings more competition and pressure. But I always tell kids just play because you en joy it. Don’t think too much about playing for the country. Even now, when I feel pressure, I remind myself to play because I enjoy it. We’re fortunate as sportspeople — we get to do what we love every day. What does football represent for you now? First, I feel highly privileged. What I’ve been able to do for my country and my club is an ab solute honour. Second, sport has made me a better person. Most of the good things in my life have come because of football. I’ll never forget that. I carry a lot of gratitude for the sport and for the people who helped me along the way. All I can do in return is give my best. Sometimes I win, sometimes I lose, but I make sure I leave nothing behind. And now, knowing that soon there will be a last time, I’m simply enjoying it. At this phase of your life and career, what are you most looking forward to? I want to keep enjoying the game for as long as I can. I also want to spend more time with my family, watch my son grow, and be present for him. Football has given me everything. Whether it’s playing, mentoring, or just being around the sport, I’ll always stay connected to it. But right now, it’s about enjoying the present — the game, the family, and the journey.
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