The tributes have poured in across Twitter after it was revealed this morning that British & Irish Lions legend Paul O’Connell will miss the rest of the Rugby World Cup.
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The Ireland lock, who captained the Lions on their tour of South Africa in 2009, sustained a hamstring injury during Sunday’s victory over France, which now looks to be his final match on the international stage.
O’Connell also visited New Zealand in 2005 and Australia two years ago with the Lions, while he has amassed 108 caps for his country.
The 35-year-old, who joins European champions Toulon this season, will be sorely missed and fellow three-time Lion Ronan O’Gara took to Twitter to sing his praises.
He wrote: “My sadness is tinged with absolute pride having spent 16 years with one of Rugby’s greatest competitors #gentleman #Leader #1ofakind”
Brian O’Driscoll added: “This is so wrong on many levels. One of the greatest leaders & players of them all. Inspirational.”
Ireland Women’s captain Niamh Briggs also shared her thoughts: “You always want to finish on your own terms but sport can be cruel!! True leader & inspiration…hope he gets back to play in France #iconic”
And the Munster Rugby Supporters Club tweeted: “Paul O’Connell has played his last game for Ireland.. A leader, a legend and a gent. All we can say is #ThanksPaulie”
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