Seven-time All-Ireland winner Jonny Cooper has called time on his glittering Dublin career.
The 33-year-old retires as one of the most decorated defenders in the history of the inter-county game.
Announcing the news on social media, Cooper said: “Going to Hill 16 from hip height with my mother had me completely hooked.
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“I have had the immense honour and pleasure to play on the Dublin senior football team for 11 years. The time is now right for me to move on to the next chapter and to say thank you to many.”
Cooper played under Jim Gavin for Dublin U21s, captaining the side that included the likes of James McCarthy, Dean Rock and Rory O’Carroll to All-Ireland glory in 2010.
And when Gavin took the senior football job in 2013, Cooper would become a mainstay of an all-conquering Dublin side in the 2010s.
Cooper continued to be a key cog in the Dublin defence when Dessie Farrell took over from Gavin in 2020, as the Dubs secured a historic sixth All-Ireland title in succession.
Alongside lifting the Sam Maguire Cup on seven occasions, Cooper won 10 Leinster titles, five National League medals and two All-Stars (2016 and 2018).
The Na Fianna man added: “To my friends that have backed me no matter what - although I missed a few occasions along the way I always had the aim to make you proud. Whatever I possess is simply gleaned from you.
“The Dublin county board staff, coaches, officials and sponsors whose time, experience and expertise have Gaelic Games in Dublin thriving like never before.
“To the many opposition teams, officials and grounds staff met along the way - thank you. To the loyal and passionate Dublin supporters. Many times electricity ran through my veins - I have never felt more alive than in front of you. I appreciate this deep connection; your support on the good days and the not so good days is unrivalled.
“To my club Na Fianna that I am so proud to represent - managers, coaches, teammates, parents, friends and tireless volunteers that have taught me so much since I was 4.
"I look forward with great excitement to helping in whatever was I can in what's to come next in our special community.
“To my remarkable family and Saoirse whose (six) relentless love, work ethic, support and encouragement is the main reason I got this opportunity in the first place and the only reason I have lasted the few years I did.
“Finally, to the many Dublin teammates, managers, coaches. performance staff, medical staff and support staff all along the journey - words can't cover the ground to effectively express my sincere gratitude. respect and admiration for all that you sacrifice and what you have done for my family, Saoirse and I.
“Friendship and memories that are locked in to the end of day, with the world’s greatest thief not able to take even just one away. I love and care for you all deeply.”
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Dublin legend Jonny Cooper announces inter-county retirement
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