Virat Kohli reacted and paid tribute as Sunil Chhetri, the legendary Indian footballer, announced his retirement from the game. The 39-year-old icon announced his decision on social media on Thursday in a video message.

Sunil Chhetri, the Indian captain, will play his last game in international football, in the FIFA World Cup qualification game against Kuwait on June 6.

Chhetri made his international debut against Pakistan on 12th June 2005 and scored his first goal for India in the same match. He is India’s most capped footballer.

As of now, Chhetri stands tall with third most international goals (94 in 150 matches) among the currently active players, behind Argentine legend Lionel Messi (106 in 180 matches) at number two and the leader and Portugal legend Cristiano Ronaldo (128 in 205 matches).

Reacting to Chhetri’s retirement announcement on Instagram, his close friend and legendary India cricketer Virat Kohli reacted and posted: 'My brother, proud'

Apart from Kohli, his Indian teammates Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal also took to social media and posted messages for the Indian football star.

Kuldeep posted: “Congratulations on a fantastic career Legend. Wishing the best for you.”

“What a run you have had! Congratulations on an amazing career @chetrisunil11 Happy Retirement, legend,” Chahal posted on X.