Eight-time All-Ireland winner Philly McMahon has announced his retirement from inter-county football.

One of the great defenders of his generation, McMahon also won 12 Leinster SFC titles and five National League crowns during what was a glittering career which spanned 14 years with the Dubs.

The 34-year-old announced his decision on social media this morning.

The Ballymun Kickhams clubman becomes the latest Dub from the 'six-in-a-row' era to hang up his boots in 2021 after Kevin McManamon, Cian O'Sullivan, Michael Darragh Macauley and Paddy Andrews all confirmed their retirements this year.

McMahon made his inter-county debut in 2008 and, after winning his first Sam Maguire Cup in 2011 when he came off the bench against Kerry, he would go on to be part of a golden generation in the capital that delivered seven more All-Ireland SFC titles.

The corner-back’s performances in 2015 and 2016 would earn him All-Star awards in both years and he also represented Leinster in the Interprovincials and his country in the International Rules Series against Australia in the former year.

Dublin. My friend. My home. Mentioned 50 times in this poem. We live in you, My city, mo chroi, I love you, most of the time, you see.... Dublin you are, me.
- Stephen James Smith.

Thank you to everyone that was apart of my journey. It's time to pass the jersey on. 💙🙌 pic.twitter.com/XBwm0z8484

— Philly Mc Mahon (@PhillyMcMahon) December 17, 2021

"From kicking my ball against the flats of Ballymun, to kicking the ball over the bar in Croke Park, it's time to pass the Dublin jersey on," McMahon said in a statement released by Dublin GAA this morning.

"14 years since my intercounty debut, I could never begin to imagine the journey that would unfold in front of me.

"The journey would not have been possible without the support of the Dublin County Board, the thankless work and support of the backroom teams.

"The incredible coaching from selectors, in particular Dec Darcy, who has had such an influential impact on my career on and off the pitch.

"The managers Paul Caffrey, Pat Gilroy, Jim Gavin and Dessie Farrell, who all believed in me - thank you!

"To my teammates, the battles, the wins, the losses and special friendships that have been forged forever - thank you!

"It has been an incredible journey, one I will never forget. You gave me a purpose in life, to use sport as a platform to help others that are struggling in life, like my brother John did. You have helped me keep his name alive.

"I'm so lucky and proud to have been shaped by my community, Ballymun. Thank you to everyone within my community that has supported me during my Dublin football journey, I am forever grateful.

"My journey began in Ballymun Kickhams, encouraged by a passionate footballer, Paddy Christie. I am forever grateful for the energy you recognised in me as a young kid and how it could be used on the pitch. Without your support on and off the pitch, I would not have achieved what I have today.

"It has been an honour to represent my club, wearing the sky blue jersey, I hope I made you proud.

"To my late Dad Phil and Mam Val, thank you for every opportunity you gave me, it was all worth it.

"Thank you to my extended family, close friends and work colleagues from Bedo7 and Nutriquick for endless support on and off the pitch.

"To my wife Sarah, thank you for all the support you gave me throughout my career, I will be forever grateful for the sacrifices you have made.

"Lastly to the blue army, what I will miss the most, walking the pitch of Croke Park soaking in your energy, your infectious roars, passionate singing and the unforgettable vibrations of Croke Park!!

"Thank you! Yup the flats!!! Philly."

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