Kilkenny's Walter Walsh has retired from inter-county hurling.
The Tullogher Rosbercon player exploded onto the inter-county scene in 2012, scoring 1-3 in an All-Ireland final replay against Galway as he inspired Kilkenny to glory, winning the man-of-the-match award.
He was a staple on Brian Cody's teams over the next ten years, generally lining out as a half forward, proving a puck-out option and a consistent scorer.
He won further All-Irelands with Kilkenny in 2014 and 2015, as well as eight Leinster titles and a National Hurling League.
He won his only All-Star in 2016 having been outstanding for the Cats who lost that year's All-Ireland final to Tipperary.
30 September 2012; Walter Walsh, left, and Henry Shefflin, Kilkenny, ahead of the game. GAA Hurling All-Ireland Senior Championship Final Replay, Kilkenny v Galway, Croke Park, Dublin. Picture credit: Stephen McCarthy / SPORTSFILE
He was a sub for Kilkenny for the majority of the 2024 championship, coming off the bench as their first sub in their All-Ireland semi-final loss to Clare this year.
The news of his retirement was announced on the Kilkenny GAA website with no statement from Walsh. Derek Lyng and county board chairman PJ Kenny paid their tributes.
Lyng hailed his 'towering presence on and ooff the field, saying “It’s been an honour to have worked with Walter. His towering presence both on and off the field has inspired many young hurlers and his attitude, drive and leadership has been immense.
"Walter leaves us with many great memories and I wish him well in his retirement.”
County Board Chairman, PJ Kenny wished him well for the future: “On behalf of Kilkenny County Board and all associated with Kilkenny hurling, I would like to thank Walter for his commitment and his contributions to Kilkenny hurling over the last 13 years. Throughout his career, Walter represented his club and county with distinction and we wish Walter the very best for the future.”
23 July 2023; Walter Walsh of Kilkenny during the GAA Hurling All-Ireland Senior Championship final match between Kilkenny and Limerick at Croke Park in Dublin. Photo by David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile
The 33-year-old won an All-Ireland junior title with his club back in January, helping them up to the intermediate grade in Kilkenny before scoring 1-3 in the final in Croke Park.
