Dublin's Paul Ryan has announced his retirement from inter-county hurling.
The Ballyboden St Enda’s man was part of the side that made a pair of historic breakthroughs in the last decade having delivered a first League title since 1939 in 2011 before bridging a 52-year gap between Leinster titles two years later.
Ryan was the star of that Leinster final win over Galway, hitting 2-7 and winning the Man of the Match award as Dublin scored a comprehensive 2-25 to 2-13 victory.
Announcing his retirement through a statement posted on his Instagram account, he thanked his former Dublin managers Tommy Naughton, Anthony Daly, Pat Gilroy and Mattie Kenny though made no reference to Ger Cunningham, who was in charge when Ryan opted out for the 2017 season.
“The time has come for me to call it a day on my inter county career,” the 32-year-old wrote. “It’s been 11 years of highs and lows and there is so many to thank.
“Tommy for giving me the chance, Dalo for giving me some of the best memories of my life, Pat for bringing me back when I thought I was finished and Mattie for his tireless efforts in trying to bring Dublin hurling to the top.
“Above all I want to thank my parents Joe and Ann, my family and of course my wife Jess, who, without their love and support none of it would have been possible.
“To my teammates over the years, we had some great times and I wish you all the best lads. Ballyboden St Enda’s, my club, the place where I learnt my trade, I can’t thank you enough for the endless support and I look forward to playing for another few years.
“I cannot sign off without mentioning the great Ray Finn who I’ve soldiered with for my whole career. So much more than a kit man, his support to players who have come, gone and remain is unparalleled. A true Dublin legend who went about his days selflessly.
“The dream was to win an All-Ireland but unfortunately it wasn’t to be. I can only hope that chapter will be written in my absence.”
