Dublin's James McCarthy has officially called time on his inter-county football career after 15 remarkable years. The Dublin native won nine All-Ireland titles and was part of the historic Dublin team that achieved six-in-a-row between 2015 and 2020. McCarthy is one of only three Dublin players to reach this incredible milestone, alongside Stephen Cluxton and Michael Fitzsimons.
The Ballymun Kickhams player also holds an impressive record of 14 Leinster SFC titles, six National Leagues, one U21 All-Ireland title, two U21 Leinster titles, and five All-Star awards throughout his decorated career. His last title was the 2023 All-Ireland Championship, where he served as captain.
Speculation had mounted regarding McCarthy's retirement following Dublin's loss to Galway earlier this year, and this speculation became a reality with his announcement today.
In a statement released this morning on the Dublin GAA website, McCarthy expressed his deep appreciation for the time spent representing his county. He described wearing the blue jersey as the best days of his life and thanked fans for their unwavering support throughout the years.
"I have decided to retire from representing Dublin GAA at inter-county level. This decision hasn’t been an easy one to make, but I feel it’s the right time," McCarthy stated. "I have been very fortunate to be involved in a golden period for Dublin GAA, and I have played with the most incredible group of players. It really has been some of the best days of my life, and I have memories to last a lifetime. The loyalty and friendship we have built is something I will always be thankful for. To the Dublin fans, thank you for your support of the team throughout the years. Walking around Croke Park and passing Hill 16 is a memory that I will never forget."
McCarthy also extended his gratitude to several parties, including his club, fans, coaches, and family. "To my parents, John and Marian, my family, my close friends, and my wife Clodagh, thank you for supporting me throughout my football career. Your unwavering belief in me has helped more than you will ever know."
He continued, "I would like to thank my club, Ballymun Kickhams, and the Dublin County Board for the opportunity to play with Dublin at both underage and senior levels. I look forward to many years ahead with my club and hope to give back all the support I received when I was growing up. To all the Dublin senior management, support staff, and medical teams I was fortunate to play under, I just want to take this opportunity to say thank you. I’m trying to avoid naming individuals as there are too many to thank, but it would be amiss of me not to mention Shane O’Hanlon. What an incredible loss you have been to the Dublin GAA community and to many of us on a personal level."
In closing, McCarthy wished Dublin manager Dessie Farrell and the team well for the upcoming 2025 season. He urged the players to cherish every moment while representing Dublin.
"Finally, to Dessie and the DSF group for 2025, best of luck for the season ahead. Time flies; grasp every opportunity that comes your way. You will never get this time back.
"Thank you,
"James McCarthy"
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