10 Unknown Facts About Sunil Chhetri

Sunil Chhetri, the icon of Indian football, has made his mark not only on the home turf but also on the international stage. His remarkable journey from a football enthusiast to the captain of the Indian National Football team, and his climb to the top of the scoring charts is an incredible saga of passion, resilience, and talent.

Today, we delve deeper into the life of this illustrious sportsman, exploring aspects that often remain hidden behind his on-field exploits. Here, we present ten interesting facts about Sunil Chhetri that give a glimpse into his life off the pitch, his journey to stardom, and how he remains a towering inspiration to countless aspiring footballers.

Birth and Upbringing

Sunil Chhetri was born on August 3, 1984, in Secunderabad. The fact that both his parents were sportspersons played a significant role in Sunil's early exposure to sports. His mother, Sushila Chhetri, represented the Nepal Women's National Team, while his father served in the Indian Army and played for the Army's football team.

First Sporting Love - Cricket

Although Sunil Chhetri has become a synonym for football in India, his first love was actually cricket. However, the family’s passion for football rubbed off on young Sunil, leading him to follow a different path.

Early Club Career

Sunil Chhetri began his professional career with Mohun Bagan, one of India's oldest and most prestigious football clubs, in 2002. His performances for the club established him as a promising young talent in Indian football.

International Scoring Records