Famous Irish Sportspersons

Conor McGregor is a renowned Irish professional mixed martial artist, boxer, businessman, and actor. He is a former UFC Featherweight and Lightweight Champion, holding titles in two weight classes simultaneously. McGregor is known for his exceptional counter-striking skills, precision, and knockout power in MMA. He is the biggest PPV draw in MMA history, headlining the top-selling UFC events. McGregor's boxing debut against Floyd Mayweather Jr. garnered massive PPV buys. He is credited with popularizing MMA and the UFC worldwide and was ranked as the highest-paid athlete by Forbes.

Finn Bálor, known for his time in NJPW as Prince Devitt, has had a successful career in professional wrestling. He has held multiple titles in NJPW, including the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship and IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Championship. Upon signing with WWE, he made a significant impact by winning the NXT Championship and becoming the first wrestler to win a world title in their pay-per-view debut. Bálor has since achieved further success in WWE, winning the WWE Universal Championship, Intercontinental Championship, United States Championship, and multiple Tag Team Championships.

Becky Lynch is an accomplished Irish professional wrestler known for her time in WWE under the ring name Becky Lynch. She began her wrestling career in 2002, competing in various promotions across Europe and North America. After a severe head injury in 2006, she returned to wrestling in 2012 and signed with WWE in 2013. Lynch made history by becoming the inaugural SmackDown Women's Champion and has held multiple titles, including the Raw Women's Championship. Known for her aggressive persona as "The Man," she has garnered immense popularity and achieved significant milestones in her career.

Sheamus, an Irish professional wrestler and actor, is currently signed to WWE and performs on the Raw brand under his ring name. Before joining WWE, he competed on the European independent circuit. Since debuting on WWE's main roster in 2009, Sheamus has achieved significant success, becoming a four-time world champion. He has held the WWE Championship three times and the World Heavyweight Championship once. Sheamus is known for being the first Irish world champion in WWE history and has also won multiple other championships and prestigious tournaments throughout his career.

James McCarthy is a professional footballer who plays as a central midfielder for Celtic in the Scottish Premiership. He began his career at Hamilton Academical before moving to Wigan Athletic in 2009 for a record fee. After a successful spell at Wigan, he transferred to Everton and won the FA Cup in 2013. Throughout his career, McCarthy has faced various injuries, including a broken leg in 2018. He represents the Republic of Ireland at the international level and has featured in major tournaments like UEFA Euro 2016.

Pádraig Harrington is an accomplished Irish professional golfer with an impressive career spanning multiple tours. He has secured victories in three major championships, including two consecutive wins at The Open Championship and the PGA Championship in 2008. Known for his consistent performance, Harrington spent over 300 weeks in the top-10 of world rankings, reaching a career-high ranking of third in 2008. He has also made significant contributions to the Ryder Cup, being a member of six consecutive teams between 1999 and 2010. Inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2024, Harrington's legacy in the sport is undeniable.

Roy Keane is a highly successful Irish football pundit, former coach, and retired professional player. Known for his aggressive playing style, he enjoyed a decorated club career primarily at Manchester United, winning numerous major trophies including seven Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League. As captain, he led United to sustained success. Following his playing career, Keane ventured into management, achieving notable success with Sunderland and also serving as assistant manager for various clubs and the Republic of Ireland national team. He is widely respected in the football world and was inducted into the Premier League Hall of Fame in 2021.

James McClean is an Irish professional footballer known for his role as a winger in various clubs. He started his career with Trojans and Institute before joining Derry City and later Sunderland. After a successful spell at Wigan Athletic, he moved to West Bromwich Albion and then Stoke City. McClean rejoined Wigan Athletic in 2021. Internationally, he chose to represent the Republic of Ireland over Northern Ireland, making his debut in 2012 and participating in the Euro Championships in 2012 and 2016.

Darren Randolph is an Irish professional footballer who plays as a goalkeeper. He began his professional career at Charlton Athletic before moving to Motherwell in the Scottish Premier League. He later joined Birmingham City and West Ham United in England. Randolph also represented the Republic of Ireland at various levels, including the under-21 team and the full national team, participating in major tournaments like UEFA Euro 2016. He is currently a free agent, showcasing his experience and versatility in goalkeeping throughout his career.

Paul McGrath is an Irish former professional footballer who played as a defender, primarily as a centre back but also as a defensive midfielder. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders of all time and earned the nickname 'God' at Aston Villa F.C. McGrath spent significant portions of his career at Villa and Manchester United, winning the PFA Players' Player of the Year award. He also played for St Patrick's Athletic, Derby County, and Sheffield United. McGrath represented the Republic of Ireland national team in multiple major tournaments.

Jennifer Gadirova is an accomplished English artistic gymnast who has made a significant impact on the international stage. She has represented Great Britain at various prestigious events, including the 2020 Summer Olympics, where she secured a bronze medal in the team event. Gadirova also played a key role in the success of the Great Britain team at the 2022 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships and the European Championships, earning silver medals in the team events. Additionally, she displayed her talent by winning a silver medal in the vault final at the 2019 Junior World Championships.

Kevin Martin McBride is an Irish former professional boxer known for his victory over Mike Tyson in 2005, which was the latter's final fight for nearly two decades until a future bout in 2024. McBride also represented Ireland at the 1992 Summer Olympics as an amateur boxer. Throughout his professional career, McBride showcased his skills and determination in the ring, leaving a lasting impact on the boxing world with his notable victories and contributions to the sport.

Phil Laak is a renowned Irish–American professional poker player and commentator based in Los Angeles, California. With notable achievements in the poker world, he holds a World Poker Tour (WPT) title and a World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelet. Laak has also made appearances on several nationally broadcasted television programs, showcasing his skills and expertise in the game. Known for his strategic gameplay and engaging commentary, he has established himself as a prominent figure in the competitive realm of professional poker.

Stephen John Finnan is an Irish former international footballer known for his versatility and achievements across various levels of football. He played as a right back and had a successful career playing for clubs in both domestic and international competitions. Finnan notably won the UEFA Champions League Final in 2005 with Liverpool. He was recognized for his attacking prowess and excellent crossing abilities. Finnan represented the Republic of Ireland in 52 international matches, including the 2002 FIFA World Cup, where he showcased his skills on the global stage.

Richard Dunne is a retired Irish professional footballer known for his career as a centre-back in the Premier League. He played for Everton, Manchester City, Aston Villa, and Queens Park Rangers. Dunne represented the Republic of Ireland internationally and participated in major tournaments like the FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro. After retiring from professional football, he transitioned into coaching and currently works as a youth coach at Manchester City's academy. Dunne holds notable records in the Premier League for red cards and own goals.

Katie Taylor is a highly accomplished professional boxer from Ireland. She has held multiple world titles in the lightweight and super lightweight divisions, achieving the remarkable feat of becoming the undisputed and lineal champion in both categories. Taylor has also made history by simultaneously holding all four major world titles in boxing. Her amateur career was equally impressive, with numerous gold medals at prestigious championships. Known for her aggressive boxing style, Taylor is widely regarded as one of the best active female boxers in the world.

Brian Gerard O'Driscoll is an Irish former professional rugby union player who had a distinguished career playing at outside centre for Leinster and Ireland. He captained both teams, as well as the British & Irish Lions. O'Driscoll is considered one of the greatest rugby players of all time, holding numerous records in try-scoring and tournament accolades. Inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame, he now works as a rugby analyst for BT Sport and ITV Sport, while also engaging in various business ventures.

Anthony Stokes is an Irish former professional footballer who played as a striker. He started his senior career with Arsenal and had a successful loan spell with Falkirk in 2006. Stokes then played for Sunderland before moving to Hibernian and later joining Celtic. He enjoyed success at Celtic but fell out of favor under Ronny Deila. Stokes also had stints with Blackburn Rovers, Greek club Apollon Smyrni, Iranian clubs Tractor and Persepolis, and Turkish club Adana Demirspor before returning to Scotland with Livingston in 2020. He represented the Republic of Ireland at under-21 level and played in nine full internationals for the senior team.

Jonathan Walters is a former professional footballer who played as a forward and is currently the sporting director of Stoke City. He started his career at Blackburn Rovers before moving on to Bolton Wanderers and then going on loan to various clubs. Walters eventually found success at Ipswich Town before joining Stoke City in 2010. He played a key role in Stoke's 2011 FA Cup run and represented the Republic of Ireland in UEFA Euro 2012. Walters scored important goals for both club and country before joining Burnley in 2017.

Simon Zebo is an accomplished Irish rugby union player known for his versatility on the field, having played as a wing and fullback for clubs Munster and Racing 92, as well as representing Ireland at the international level. With his exceptional speed, agility, and skills, Zebo has been a key player in various competitions, showcasing his ability to score tries and create scoring opportunities for his team. His professional career has been marked by numerous achievements and contributions to the sport of rugby.

Damien Duff is an Irish professional football manager and former player. He started his career with Blackburn Rovers, winning the Football League Cup, before moving to Chelsea for £17 million. At Chelsea, he won two Premier League titles and another League Cup. He then played for Newcastle United and Fulham, reaching the UEFA Europa League Final with the latter. Duff also had stints at Melbourne City and Shamrock Rovers. He transitioned into coaching roles with Shamrock Rovers, Celtic, and the Republic of Ireland youth teams. Duff represented the Republic of Ireland for 14 years, earning 100 caps and participating in major tournaments like the FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro.

Stephen Ireland is a former Irish professional footballer who played as an attacking midfielder. He started his career at Cobh Ramblers before moving to Manchester City in 2001. Ireland became a key player for City during the 2008-2009 season, winning the club's Player of the Year award. He later transferred to Aston Villa in 2010 and had loan spells at Newcastle United. Ireland then joined Stoke City permanently in 2014. After a brief stint at Bolton Wanderers, he retired in 2018.

Sam Bennett is an accomplished Irish professional cyclist known for his sprinting abilities. He began his professional career in 2011 and currently rides for UCI WorldTeam Decathlon–AG2R La Mondiale. Throughout his career, Bennett has achieved significant success in Grand Tours, including winning a total of ten stages across various prestigious events such as the Giro d'Italia, Vuelta a España, and Tour de France. His notable victories also include winning the Points classification at the 2020 Tour de France.

Glenn Whelan is an Irish former professional footballer who played as a defensive midfielder. He had a successful career playing for various clubs, including Sheffield Wednesday, Stoke City, Aston Villa, and Hearts. Whelan made over 300 appearances for Stoke City over nine years before moving to Aston Villa and later Hearts. He helped Stoke City gain promotion to the Premier League and played in the 2011 FA Cup final. Whelan was known for his consistency and reliability in midfield throughout his career.

Mike Perez is a Cuban and Irish professional boxer known for his success in the cruiserweight division. He currently holds the WBA Intercontinental Cruiserweight title and has made a significant impact in the boxing world. In 2017, Perez challenged for the WBC cruiserweight title, showcasing his skills and determination at the highest level of the sport. With a strong record of achievements and a reputation for being a fierce competitor, Perez continues to make waves in the boxing community with his impressive performances.

Rachel Wyse is an Irish journalist and presenter known for her work as a former anchor on Sky Sports News. She has also made a name for herself in the world of equestrian sports as a show jumper. With a successful career in the media industry, Rachel has demonstrated versatility and skill in her roles as a journalist and presenter. Her experience in both sports reporting and equestrian competition has allowed her to establish herself as a respected figure in both fields.

Steve Collins is an Irish former professional boxer known as the Celtic Warrior. He held the WBO middleweight and super-middleweight titles simultaneously, never losing a fight as champion. Collins began his career in the United States, winning multiple titles before fulfilling his potential in his early 30s. He became WBO middleweight champion in 1994 and went on to claim the super-middleweight title in 1995. Collins successfully defended his titles several times before retiring frustrated by the inability to secure a fight against Roy Jones Jr.

Pádraig Amond is an Irish professional footballer known for his prolific goal-scoring ability as a striker. He began his career in Ireland with Shamrock Rovers before moving on to Sligo Rovers, where he won multiple titles. A move to Portuguese club Paços de Ferreira was followed by successful spells at English clubs like Accrington Stanley, Morecambe, Grimsby Town, Newport County, and Hartlepool United. Amond has represented Ireland at the under-21 level and continues to showcase his talent at Woking.

Jack Doyle, known as "the Gorgeous Gael," had a diverse professional career as an Irish boxer, professional wrestler, actor, and tenor. Initially a boxing prodigy contending for the British Boxing Heavyweight Championship, his career was hindered by alcoholism. Despite attempts at singing and acting, he faced setbacks in boxing. Transitioning to professional wrestling in the 1950s, he embraced his "Gorgeous Gael" persona. Overwhelmed by alcoholism in later years, he struggled with homelessness and died from cirrhosis of the liver in 1978.

Michael Wallace is an Irish politician and former property developer who served as a Member of the European Parliament for the South constituency from 2019 to 2024. He is a member of Independents 4 Change and part of The Left in the European Parliament. Wallace previously served as a Teachta Dála for the Wexford constituency. Known for his anti-establishment and left-wing populist views, Wallace has been involved in controversies related to unpaid taxes and has gained international attention for his foreign policy positions.

Tony O'Reilly was a prominent Irish businessman and international rugby union player. He achieved success in various professional roles, notably leading the Independent News & Media Group and serving as CEO and chairman of the H.J. Heinz Company. O'Reilly was a leading shareholder of Waterford Wedgwood and a founder of The Ireland Funds. His rugby career saw him represent Ireland, the British and Irish Lions, and the Barbarians, earning a place in the International Rugby Board's Hall of Fame.

Andy Keogh is an Irish professional footballer who has played as a forward for various clubs in both England and Australia. He began his career in England, making over 100 appearances for Wolverhampton Wanderers. In 2014, he moved to Australia to join Perth Glory before briefly playing in the Thai Premier League for Ratchaburi. Keogh has represented the Republic of Ireland national team, earning thirty caps and scoring two goals. He currently plays for Dianella White Eagles in Western Australia's second tier.

Gary O'Donovan is a successful Irish rower known for his achievements in the lightweight double sculls discipline. He, along with his brother Paul, has won numerous medals at prestigious events such as the European Rowing Championships, Summer Olympics, and World Rowing Championships. Gary's talent and dedication have earned him recognition in the rowing community, and he had the honor of being the flag bearer for Ireland at the closing ceremony of the 2016 Summer Olympics. His professional career is marked by a series of impressive accomplishments and contributions to the sport.

Sean Kelly is an Irish former professional road bicycle racer who achieved great success in the 1980s. He won a total of 193 professional races during his career, including nine Monument Classics. Kelly also won the Paris–Nice a record seven years in a row and the first UCI Road World Cup in 1989. He won the 1988 Vuelta a España and four green jerseys in the Tour de France. Kelly was known for his victories in races like the Giro di Lombardia, Milan–San Remo, and Paris–Roubaix.

Shane Long is an Irish former professional footballer known for his career as a striker. He started at Cork City before moving to Reading, where he had notable achievements such as scoring crucial goals in the Championship-winning campaign and leading his team to victory against Liverpool in the FA Cup. Long then played for West Bromwich Albion, Hull City, and Southampton in the Premier League. He also holds the record for scoring the fastest goal in Premier League history. With 88 international caps, Long represented the Republic of Ireland, scoring 17 goals during his 14-year national team career.

Kevin Long is an Irish professional footballer known for his versatility in playing as a centre-back or full-back. He started his career with Cork City before moving to Burnley in 2010. Despite struggling to secure a regular spot at Burnley, he gained valuable experience on loan spells. In 2023, he transferred to Birmingham City before ultimately signing with Major League Soccer club Toronto FC in February 2024. Long's career trajectory showcases his adaptability and determination to succeed at the professional level.

Anna Geary is a well-known camogie player and television personality from Milford, County Cork, Ireland. She has achieved great success on the camogie field, winning multiple All-Ireland titles with her county team. In addition to her success in sports, Anna has also ventured into the world of television, where she has become a popular presence on various shows. Her combination of athleticism and charisma has made her a respected figure in both the sports and entertainment industries.

Katie Walsh is a retired Irish jockey known for her impressive performances in prestigious horse racing events. She achieved notable success in the Grand National, securing a third-place finish in 2012, which was the highest at the time for a female competitor. With a background in racing, she rode three winners at the Cheltenham Festival and made history by becoming the third woman to win the Irish Grand National in 2015 aboard Thunder And Roses. Her career is marked by skill, determination, and notable achievements in the world of horse racing.

Gavin Bazunu is a talented Irish professional footballer who plays as a goalkeeper for Southampton in the Premier League. He began his career at Shamrock Rovers, later moving to Manchester City. Bazunu gained valuable experience during loan spells at Rochdale and Portsmouth. He has represented the Republic of Ireland at the youth level and made his senior international debut in 2021. Known for his impressive goalkeeping skills and composure on the field, Bazunu continues to make strides in his professional football career.

Jordan Devlin is an accomplished Irish professional wrestler currently signed to WWE. He performs on the Raw brand as JD McDonagh, part of The Judgment Day stable alongside Finn Bálor. Devlin has held multiple championships, including the World Tag Team Championship and NXT Cruiserweight Championship. His success extends beyond WWE, as he has also won titles in promotions like OTT and PROGRESS. Devlin's international experience includes a stint in Japan's Pro Wrestling Zero1, where he achieved further championship success under the ring name Frank David.

Henry Shefflin is an Irish hurling manager and former player known for his dominance, leadership, and competitive spirit on the field. He achieved numerous accolades during his career, including being the only player to win 'hurler of the year' three times. Shefflin played for Kilkenny and won 10 All-Ireland Championship titles, captaining the team to victory in 2007. He also had success at club level and as a manager. Shefflin is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of hurling.

Joseph Canning is an accomplished Irish hurler known for his exceptional skills and achievements in the sport. He has had a successful career both at club level with Portumna and at inter-county level with the Galway senior hurling team. Canning has won numerous awards, including All-Stars and the GAA-GPA Hurler of the Year. He holds records for scoring and has secured multiple major trophies throughout his 14-season tenure with Galway. Canning's talent and contributions have solidified his legacy as one of the greatest hurlers of all time.

Gary "Spike" O'Sullivan is an accomplished Irish professional boxer known for holding multiple middleweight championships at regional level, including the Irish title, between 2009 and 2017. In addition to his successful boxing career, O'Sullivan showcased his talent in the entertainment industry by acting and performing stunts in the 2007 film Strength and Honour. With a strong presence both in the ring and on the screen, O'Sullivan has proven his versatility and skill in various aspects of his professional life.

John Egan is an Irish professional footballer known for his role as a centre-back for the Republic of Ireland national team. Starting his career at Sunderland, he went on loan to various clubs before joining Gillingham in 2014, where he achieved Player of the Year honors. He later joined Brentford and served as captain before rejoining Sheffield United in 2018. Egan played a key role in Sheffield United's promotion to the Premier League. Internationally, he has represented Ireland at multiple youth levels before making his senior debut in 2017.

Anna Nolan is a versatile professional known for her work as a television presenter, producer, and former business manager. She has also worked as a waitress and represented Ireland as an international basketball player. With a successful career in both Ireland and the UK, she has hosted a variety of television programs, showcasing her talent and versatility in the entertainment industry. Through her various roles, Anna Nolan has established herself as a prominent figure in the world of television and media.

Dan Martin is a retired British-Irish professional road racing cyclist who competed for various teams from 2008 to 2021. Representing Ireland through his mother, he had a successful career, winning stages in prestigious races like the Tour de France, Vuelta a España, and Giro d'Italia. He achieved top 10 finishes in multiple Grand Tours and secured victories in races such as the Tour de Pologne and Volta a Catalunya. Known for his prowess in one-day races, Martin also won Monument classics like Liège–Bastogne–Liège and Giro di Lombardia.

Stephanie Roche is an accomplished Irish footballer known for her striking abilities. She has played for various clubs in Ireland and abroad, including stints at Peamount United, ASPTT Albi, Houston Dash, Sunderland, and Florentia. Roche has represented the Republic of Ireland national team in over 50 matches, overcoming challenges like injuries to make impactful comebacks. She gained recognition for her remarkable goal in the Women's National League, which earned her a nomination for the FIFA Puskás Award. Roche has also ventured into sports punditry, providing commentary for major football events on RTÉ.

Ruesha Littlejohn is a versatile professional footballer known for her midfield skills. She currently plays for London City Lionesses in the FA Women's Championship and competes internationally for the Republic of Ireland national team. Littlejohn has a strong history in the sport, having played for various clubs including Glasgow City, IL Sandviken in Norway, and several English sides like Arsenal, Liverpool, and Birmingham City. She is recognized for her contributions on the field and has represented both Scotland and Ireland at different levels of competition.

Aidan Harris Igiehon is an Irish college basketball player currently competing for the Abilene Christian Wildcats in the Western Athletic Conference (WAC). He has also played for the Grand Canyon Antelopes and the Louisville Cardinals. Igiehon's basketball journey began at Lawrence Woodmere Academy in New York, where he achieved recognition as a four-star recruit and secured three state championships. With a strong collegiate background, Igiehon continues to make strides in his basketball career, showcasing his skills and dedication on the court.

Lee Chin is a talented Irish hurler known for his skills on the field. He plays for the Faythe Harriers in the Wexford Senior Championship, showcasing his prowess in the sport. Additionally, he represents the Wexford senior hurling team at the inter-county level, demonstrating his commitment to excellence in his sport. With a strong presence on the field, Lee Chin has become a key player for both his club and county teams, earning recognition for his contributions to the game of hurling.

Harry Arter is an Irish professional footballer known for his role as a versatile midfielder. Starting his career at Charlton Athletic, he gained experience on loan at various clubs before finding success at Bournemouth. He played a key role in the team's promotions to the Championship and later to the Premier League. Arter also represents the Republic of Ireland at the international level, showcasing his talents across different age groups before making his senior debut in 2015.

Niall Breslin, also known as Bressie, is a versatile Irish professional with a successful career in music, sports, and entertainment. He initially gained recognition as the lead singer, guitarist, and songwriter of the popular pop band The Blizzards. Breslin further showcased his talent as a co-writer and producer with XIX Entertainment, in addition to establishing himself as a solo artist. Notably, he excelled as a coach on multiple seasons of The Voice of Ireland, further solidifying his reputation as a multifaceted and accomplished individual.

Fiacre Kelleher is an Irish professional footballer known for his role as a defender for EFL League Two club Colchester United. With a strong presence on the field, Kelleher showcases exceptional defensive skills and tactical awareness. His contributions to Colchester United have been instrumental in the team's performance, earning him recognition as a key player. Kelleher's dedication to the sport and commitment to improving his game make him a valuable asset to his team and a promising talent in the world of professional football.

Mick McCarthy is a renowned figure in football, known for his multifaceted roles as a player, manager, and pundit. Starting his career at Barnsley, he played for esteemed clubs like Manchester City, Celtic, and Lyon before retiring at Millwall. As a manager, McCarthy has led teams such as Millwall, Sunderland, Wolves, and Ipswich Town, achieving success like guiding the Republic of Ireland to the World Cup knockout stage in 2002. He also had stints at APOEL, Cardiff City, and Blackpool, showcasing his expertise in football management and analysis on various platforms including BBC and Virgin Media Television.

Paddy Holohan is a former mixed martial artist and current Irish politician. He had a successful career in professional MMA, competing in the flyweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship and other promotions such as Cage Contender. Holohan participated in The Ultimate Fighter 18, showcasing his skills and determination in the sport. After retiring from MMA in 2016, he transitioned into politics, where he continues to make a positive impact in his community. Holohan's journey exemplifies his versatility and dedication to both sports and public service.

Paddy Ryan was an Irish American boxer who achieved fame as the bare-knuckle American heavyweight champion on 30 May 1880 by defeating Joe Goss. He held the title until his loss to John L. Sullivan on 7 February 1882. Ryan's professional career included ten major bouts and numerous exhibitions, some of which were against Sullivan. These exhibitions provided him with income while posing less risk due to shorter rounds. Ryan's legacy as a renowned boxer remains notable in the history of the sport.

Derval O'Rourke is an accomplished Irish former sprint hurdles athlete known for her participation in numerous international competitions. She specialized in the 60 and 100 metres hurdles, holding the Irish national record in the former event. Throughout her career, O'Rourke competed in multiple Indoor and Outdoor World Championships, as well as representing Ireland at the 2004, 2008, and 2012 Summer Olympics. Her dedication to the sport and impressive performances have solidified her reputation as a top-level athlete in the world of sprint hurdles.

Stephen Patrick Hunt is an Irish former professional footballer known for his role as a winger for several clubs including Crystal Palace, Brentford, Reading, Hull City, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Ipswich Town, and Coventry City. He also represented the Republic of Ireland national team, earning 39 caps and scoring one goal. Hunt's career was marked by his skillful play on the field and his contributions to various teams over the years.

Mark McNulty is a prominent Zimbabwean-Irish professional golfer known for his impressive career on the European Tour during the late 1980s and early 1990s. He achieved significant success during this period, consistently ranking in the top 10 of the Official World Golf Ranking for 83 weeks from 1987 to 1992. McNulty's skill and dedication to the sport earned him a reputation as one of the leading players in the golfing world, showcasing his talent and competitiveness on the international stage.

Gary Kelly is an Irish former footballer known for his entire professional career spent at Leeds United. He played as a right-back or right midfielder from 1992 to 2007, making a total of 531 appearances for the club. Kelly holds the record of being the only player at Leeds United to have made more than 500 appearances outside of Don Revie's stewardship. His loyalty and long-standing commitment to the club have cemented his legacy as a respected figure in Leeds United's history.

Paul O'Donovan is a highly accomplished Irish lightweight rower, known for his exceptional success in the sport. He has achieved numerous accolades, including being an Olympic gold medallist, a five-time world champion in single and double sculls, and setting world records for his events. O'Donovan has consistently excelled in various competitions, winning medals at multiple World Rowing Championships, Summer Olympics, and European Rowing Championships. His dedication and skill have made him one of the most successful and respected figures in the world of lightweight rowing.

Rachael Blackmore is a highly accomplished Irish jockey known for her success in both National Hunt and flat racing. In 2021, she made history by becoming the first female jockey to win the prestigious Grand National, a feat unmatched in the race's long history. Additionally, she became the leading jockey at the Cheltenham Festival, securing six victories including the Champion Hurdle. Her remarkable skills and achievements have earned her prestigious accolades such as the RTÉ Sports Person of the Year and the BBC World Sport Star of the Year.

Katie McCabe is an Irish professional footballer who plays for Arsenal in the English Women's Super League and captains the Republic of Ireland women's national team. Mainly a left back, she has also excelled as a left winger and left midfielder. McCabe has achieved significant success in her career, winning multiple titles with Raheny United and Arsenal, including the FA Cup and the WSL. She has been recognized for her talent and leadership, being named the captain of the Irish national team and earning various accolades, such as being named Ireland Women's Player of the Year.

Kellie Harrington is a renowned Irish amateur boxer with a remarkable record of achievements. She has excelled in various international competitions, showcasing her skills and determination. Harrington secured a silver medal in the light welterweight division at the 2016 Women's World Boxing Championships before claiming gold in the lightweight division at the 2018 Women's World Boxing Championships. Her success continued as she achieved another gold medal in the lightweight division at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, solidifying her status as an Olympic champion.

Josh van der Flier is an Irish professional rugby union flanker known for his exceptional skills and dedication on the field. He currently plays for Leinster in the United Rugby Championship and represents the Ireland national team with pride. Van der Flier's Dutch heritage adds a unique dimension to his persona, earning him the nickname 'The Dutch Disciple' among Leinster Rugby enthusiasts. With a strong work ethic and a passion for the sport, he continues to make significant contributions to both club and country in the world of rugby.

Aisling Daly is a retired professional mixed martial artist from Ireland who competed in the UFC women's strawweight division. She gained recognition through her participation in "The Ultimate Fighter: A Champion Will Be Crowned" season 20. Daly showcased her skills in various weight divisions and trained at Straight Blast Gym Ireland under the guidance of head coach John Kavanagh. In October 2016, she achieved the milestone of earning a Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Daly retired from MMA in 2017 due to a brain scan abnormality.

Keith Wood is an Irish former rugby union player known for his exceptional skills as a hooker at both international and club levels. He represented Ireland and the British & Irish Lions during his career. With stints at Garryowen, Harlequins, and Munster, he showcased his talent and leadership on the field. Nicknamed 'The Raging Potato' and 'Uncle Fester', Wood was highly regarded as one of the best hookers in rugby union history. He was honored with the inaugural World Rugby Player of the Year award.

Jordan Larmour is a talented Irish rugby player known for his exceptional skills as a wing for Leinster in the United Rugby Championship and the Ireland national team. With his speed, agility, and strong attacking prowess, Larmour has become a key player for both his club and country. He has earned a reputation for his impressive performances on the field, often making crucial plays and scoring important tries. Larmour's professional career continues to flourish as he remains a valuable asset to his teams.

Matthew James Doherty is an Irish professional footballer known for his versatile playing style as a full-back or wing-back. He began his career at Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2010, gaining experience through loan spells at Hibernian and Bury. Doherty went on to make over 300 appearances for Wolves before briefly playing for Tottenham Hotspur and Atlético Madrid. He returned to Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2023, also representing the Republic of Ireland national team at the senior level.

Davy Fitzgerald is an accomplished figure in Irish hurling, excelling as both player and manager. He achieved success at club level with Sixmilebridge, winning multiple championship titles. As part of the Clare county team, he earned a reputation as one of the greatest goalkeepers of his generation, securing All-Ireland and Munster Championship titles. Transitioning into coaching, Fitzgerald managed various teams, leading Clare to an All-Ireland victory in 2013 and Wexford to a Leinster Championship win in 2019.

Barry McGuigan is an Irish boxing promoter and former professional boxer. Known as The Clones Cyclone, he held the WBA and lineal featherweight titles from 1985 to 1986. Additionally, he held the British and European featherweight titles from 1983 to 1985. McGuigan was honored as BBC Sports Personality of the Year in 1985 and was later inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2005. He founded the Professional Boxing Association (PBA) and serves as its current president, while also leading Cyclone Promotions as founder and CEO. McGuigan holds dual citizenship in Ireland and the United Kingdom.

Ashling Thompson is a prominent Irish sportswoman, excelling in the sport of camogie. She represents her local club, Milford, as well as the Cork county team. Known for her skill and dedication on the field, Thompson has established herself as a key player in the sport. Her contributions have been instrumental in the success of both her club and county teams. With a competitive spirit and a strong work ethic, Thompson continues to make a significant impact in the world of camogie.

James O'Shea is an Irish professional footballer known for his versatility as an attacking midfielder, winger, and striker. He has played for various clubs in Ireland and England, including Bray Wanderers, Galway United, Birmingham City, Middlesbrough, Stevenage, Port Vale, Milton Keynes Dons, Chesterfield, Sheffield United, and Bury. O'Shea has achieved success with several clubs, winning titles and earning accolades such as being named in the PFA Team of the Year multiple times. He currently plays for A-League Men club Brisbane Roar and has been recognized for his performances in the A-League Team of the Season and A-Leagues All Star team.

Andy Lee is an Irish former professional boxer who competed from 2006 to 2017. He held the WBO middleweight title from 2014 to 2015, making history as the first member of the travelling community to win a major world title. Lee was trained by the late Emmanuel Steward during his professional career. Known for his skill and determination, Lee's boxing career was marked by significant achievements and memorable fights, solidifying his reputation as a respected and talented athlete in the boxing world.

Chloe Watkins is a highly accomplished Ireland women's field hockey player with extensive international experience. She has represented Ireland in numerous competitions, including the Women's Hockey World Cup final in 2018, where she made her 200th senior international appearance. In addition to playing for UCD and Hermes-Monkstown in the Women's Irish Hockey League, Watkins has also competed for Club de Campo in Spain and HC Bloemendaal in the Netherlands. She has achieved success in winning league titles and senior cup competitions across multiple countries.