Dublin captain Stephen Cluxton says knowing the pain of final defeats sees him always retire to the dressing room even when tasting victory.
Cluxton takes some stick in quarters for his lack of outward emotion despite Dublin's stunning success in recent seasons.
The 39-year-old won a record-equalling eight All-Ireland football title today after victory over Mayo at Croke Park.
He was then, as his custom, notably absent as the Dublin footballers paraded around the pitch with the Sam Maguire trophy.
But in a revealing interview with The Sunday Game, the goalkeeper explained his preference for low-key celebrations.
"I wouldn't like to be on the receiving end of people cheering and shouting in my face," Cluxton explained.
"So I just think it's a nice gesture to quietly go in and celebrate out of harm's way.
"I know the guys in the Mayo jersey put so much time and effort into that. And I know the hurt they are feeling, I know what it feels like.
"It is just an appreciation for the contest.
"I'm absolutely delighted of course, it mightn't show, but I am."
