Kilkenny great Reid confirms inter-county retirement

Updated / Friday, 30 Oct 2026 16:39

Kilkenny's seven-time All-Ireland SHC winner TJ Reid has confirmed his retirement from inter-county hurling.

The 2015 Hurler of the Year had 20 seasons with the Cats, but he will not be returning for 2027.

"Walking away from something that's been such a huge part of my life is not easy, but I leave with immense pride and no regrets," he said.

"When I first wore the Kilkenny jesrey in 2007, I never imagined I would still be representing my county two decades later. It has been the greatest privilege of my life."

During a remarkable inter-county career, Reid amassed seven All-Ireland titles, 14 Leinster SHC medals and five National Hurling Leagues.

He earned seven All-Stars over the course of his career, placing him tied-fourth in the all-time list in hurling, behind only Henry Shefflin, DJ Carey and Tommy Walsh.

The Ballyhale Shamrocks man also finishes his career as the all-time leading scorer in senior hurling championship history.

"The victories and medals will always be special, but it is the people, friendships and privilege of representing my county that I will cherish most," added Reid.

"I have given everything I could to Kilkenny hurling and never taken the jersey for granted. I hope I have done it justice, honoured those who came before me and upheld the traditions of this great sport."

Kilkenny GAA chairman PJ Kenny paid tribute to Reid, saying: "His achievements speak for themselves, but it is the manner in which he represented Kilkenny, his commitment to the jersey and the standards he set throughout his career that will leave a lasting impression.

"He has been a wonderful ambassador for Kilkenny GAA and a firm favourite with our supporters, who have enjoyed so many memorable moments thanks to his exceptional talent. On behalf of Kilkenny GAA, I want to sincerely thank TJ for everything he has given to our county."

Read Next