Ireland, it seems, is constantly upping its game as far as successful sports stars are concerned. Dublin has produced a lot of greats, and we decided to put together a list of 10 of the most iconic Dublin sport stars that are making waves in their respective fields right now.
10. Rachel Ruddy
Ruddy is an insanely talented Gaelic games player. She was representing overseas for a few years playing GAA in Singapore with the Gaelic Lions, before returning back to play for Dublin in 2012.
9. Liam Rushe
This 24 year old has been making waves on the GAA circuit for the past five years. Currently playing for the Dublin senior hurling team, his skill and speed really set him apart from the rest of the crowd.
8. Stephanie Roche
This Irish footballer was the only woman to be nominated for the 2014 FIFA Puskás Award, in which she came second. While she’s originally from Shankill, she currently plays professionally for the French team ASPTT Albi.
7. Diarmuid Connolly
Diarmuid started out playing football and hurling for St. Vincents, and also plays for the Dubs’ inter-county gaelic team. With two All-Ireland titles under his belt, as well as two All-Ireland Club Championships – he’s definitely a star on the rise.
6. Annalise Murphy
This Olympic Irish Sailor is ranked 2nd in the world, and came fourth at the London Olympics 2012. The road to Rio 2016 is a very promising one for Annalise Murphy, what with her winning gold in the European Championships in 2013.
5. Conor McGregor
This Dub’s sport of choice is mixed martial arts, he is competing in the Ultimate Fighting Championships (UFC) at the moment. His latest match in Boston this week saw him knock out his opponent, Dennis Siver, in record time. With more matches to come in Vegas this May, he’s one to watch.
4. Padraig Harrington
One of the best golfers to come out of Ireland, Harrington’s major championship wins over the past few years have him up there in competition with mega international golfers.
3. Jamie Heaslip
Current Leinster captain, born in Israel and one of Irelands most consistent ever performers. His recent shoulder injury was his first major injury concern since October 2010, which shows just how seriously he takes fitness and recovery.
2. Robbie Keane
Since 1998, this Tallaght man has scored 65 goals for Ireland’s soccer team. He’s a busy guy though, captaining both the Los Angeles Galaxy team and the Republic of Ireland national football team.
1. Katie Taylor
Although Katie is from Bray, it’s considered the greater Dublin area so we found her worthy of the number one spot. While Katie is involved in a few different sports, boxing is her true calling. She is currently the Irish, European, World and Olympic Champion in the 60kg division, with an Olympic gold medal to boot.
Topics:
RELATED ARTICLES
MORE FROM Lovin Dublin
MORE FROM Lovin Dublin
