Kerry great calls time on decorated career after scaling the All-Ireland heights at last

Louise Ní Mhuircheartaigh has decided to go out at the top.

The Kerry star, who has announced her retirement, finally won an All-Ireland title with the Kingdom in August after 17 years of trying.

The Corca Dhuibhne sharpshooter scored six points in a superb individual display in the TG4 All-Ireland ladies senior final against Galway. That triumph - Kerry's first since 1993 - came after back to back final defeats in 2022 and '23.

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Ní Mhuircheartaigh was uncertain in the aftermath of the breakthrough success if she would return for 2025 and, as recently as last week, she admitted she had still not made up her mind.

But her retirement follows the decision of joint managers Declan Quill and Darragh Long to step down after the final, and the announcement will come as a blow to new Kingdom boss Mark Bourke.

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The 32-year-old first played for her county as a 16-year-old in 2008 and she went on to win five All-Stars and was named Footballer of the Year in 2023.

"After 17 years of representing Kerry at inter-county level, I have made the decision to retire from playing with the Kerry Ladies Football team," Ní Mhuircheartaigh said.

"This has been a deeply difficult decision, but one I feel is right for me at this stage in my career. I would like to thank the Kerry county board for their support throughout my journey.

Kerry's Louise Ní Mhuircheartaigh with Maryanne Jordan of Galway in the 2024 All-Ireland final
(Image: ©INPHO/Ben Brady)

"A special thanks to the management teams over the years particularly Darragh and Declan and their management teams, for their guidance, leadership and passion for the Kerry ladies. Your dedication has played a key role in my development, both on and off the field.

"To my teammates, it has been an honour to represent this jersey alongside such talented and driven individuals. I'll forever cherish the memories we've shared together and the friendships we have created. While my playing days may be over, the pride and love I have for Kerry football will never fade."

Kerry LGFA chairperson Nora Fealey paid tribute to Ní Mhuircheartaigh, describing her as "one of the greatest Gaelic footballers that the Kingdom has ever produced".

Fealy added: "Louise Ni Mhuircheartaigh has been an inspiration to all who have witnessed her 17 year career in the green and gold. Louise is the embodiment of what makes Ladies Gaelic football great.

"Talented, consistent, hardworking, committed, dedicated and inspiring are all words that come to mind when describing Louise on and off the field."

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