Derry’s Chrissy McKaigue has retired from intercounty football.
The former Derry captain won two Ulster titles, one Division 1 league medal, and an All-Star since making his debut in 2008.
However, he will continue his dual role as a hurler and footballer with his club Slaughtneil, where he has won seven Ulster club titles—four in hurling and three in football—and helped Slaughtneil reach two All-Ireland finals. McKaigue also made history as the first player to win AIB Club All-Stars in both hurling and football in 2020.
The 35-year-old admitted that the time was right to hang up his inter-county boots. He believes the decision will give the Derry team and management a chance to plan for the 2025 campaign.
“The time is right,” McKaigue told RTÉ Sport on Monday.
“I have been thinking about it for some time. I spoke to Paddy and shared my feelings with him early so we could both move forward in our respective future endeavours. I just wanted everything to be clear from the start of the new regime, with no uncertainty or speculation over the winter.
Chrissy McKaigue has announced his retirement from intercounty football.https://t.co/uZj9HSEu6G
— Derry GAA (@Doiregaa) November 18, 2024
“It’s mid-November, and making this decision now provides clarity for the team and management to move forward.
“Getting my body right, embracing all the aspects of modern training, and preparing my mind has been hard work over 15 years with Derry. My gut says now is the right time to step aside.”
Derry GAA also released a statement on their website, offering a tribute to their now-former player: “As a former Derry senior captain and an All-Star recipient in 2022, Chrissy leaves a legacy etched in determination, leadership, and excellence.
“Throughout his career—149 senior appearances—Chris was more than just a player. His leadership, both on and off the pitch, guided Derry through some of its most defining moments in recent years, re-establishing the county as a force to be reckoned with in Gaelic football.
“Chrissy’s passion for Derry GAA was evident in every match, every tackle, and every rallying cry to his team. His All-Star recognition in 2022 was a fitting testament to his skill, work ethic, and commitment, but his contributions went far beyond individual accolades. Chrissy embodied what it means to play for your county—with pride, loyalty, and unwavering belief.”
The statement continued: “While his chapter as a player closes, there is no doubt that Chrissy McKaigue’s impact on Gaelic games in Derry is far from over. His leadership, vision, and dedication ensure he will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the sport in the county, inspiring generations to come.
“Thank you, Chrissy, for your remarkable service to Derry football. You retire as a Derry great, and your influence will continue to shine brightly in the years ahead.”
