Who Is Sonam Bhattacharya? Entrepreneur And Sunil Chhetri's Pillar Of Support

When Sunil Chhetri, India’s most capped and highest scoring footballer, announced his international retirement on November 7, fans all over the country mourned the end of an era. But behind every great athlete is someone silently supporting them, and for Chhetri, that person has always been his wife, Sonam Bhattacharya. She is an entrepreneur based in Kolkata, reportedly involved in the hotel industry. Her story isn’t told in goals or records, but she has silently shaped his journey and kept him going for nearly two decades.

From Football Roots to Lifelong Partnership

Sonam’s connection to football isn’t only through her husband; she grew up in a football family. Her father, Subrata Bhattacharya, is a former Mohun Bagan legend. From an early age, she understood the dedication and sacrifices a football career demands.

She met Sunil when she was just 15 and he was 18. In an interview with Aaro Ananda, Sonam Bhattacharya recalled their early days, “I had not told him at that time that Subrata Bhattacharya is my father. Otherwise, things might have been different… but the truth came out after a few days.” 

From playful phone calls to secret meetings, their friendship grew into love, and the two tied the knot in December 2017. Throughout their journey, Sonam has been by Sunil’s side as a trusted confidante, honest critic, and his ‘biggest fan,’ guiding him through the highs and lows of his football career.

Supporting Every Goal and Loss

Chhetri often credits Sonam for being a constant support throughout his life and career. In an interview with Bollywood Shaadis, he said, “When I was a nobody & had no money, she was there… I can’t imagine my past without her & definitely not my future.”

From long training camps, international trips, and tough matches, Sonam took care of the home and family, letting him focus completely on football.

When fans cheer for Chhetri’s goals, they rarely see all the emotional and practical support she provides behind the scenes, making sacrifices, keeping family life steady, and being the silent strength he relies on.

Her perspective on Retirement

When Chhetri first announced his retirement in June 2024, Sonam was among those who let the tears be real but silent. According to reports, his mother and wife “burst into tears” when he first shared the decision. Later in a public interview, Sonam said," As his fan, I wanted him to continue playing for the national team, but as his wife, I hoped he would have more time at home.”

Her reaction shows the delicate balance athlete spouses navigate, supporting their partner’s professional ambitions while craving the personal and family time that the career often consumes.

Now, with the final retirement in November 2025 after India failed to qualify for the Asian Cup 2027, she has not yet released a public statement. But her earlier words reflect what this moment means: the end of an era, and the beginning of another chapter for both of them.

A Celebration of Partnership

Sonam’s support shows in the small gestures fans have noticed over the years. Whenever Chhetri scored a goal, he often blew kisses to her in the stands, a simple but heartfelt way to acknowledge her presence and encouragement.

Their journey together, from young love to becoming parents to their son Dhruv, shows a partnership built on respect, patience, and strength.

Beyond the Spotlight

While the public sees the athlete and his achievements, Sonam’s role shows that behind every sports star there is someone who keeps their world steady. She has celebrated his wins, comforted him after losses, and made sure that, even with the pressures of professional football, home stayed a place of love and stability.

Her story is a reminder of the support, patience, and everyday sacrifices that make excellence on the field possible.

Sonam Bhattacharya’s journey also shows a bigger truth: the people who support athletes often go unnoticed, but their role is crucial to every success. While Chhetri’s goals and records will be remembered for years, it is Sonam’s silent presence, patience, and love that helped make those victories possible. Her story isn’t only about partnership, it’s a reminder of how personal strength and support shape public greatness.