Ireland and Munster legend Peter O'Mahony has posted a thank-you message on his personal social media, expressing gratitude to Irish fans in France and around the world for supporting the team at this year's Rugby World Cup.
Andy Farrell's side were highly fancied to break their quarter-final hoodoo at the World Cup but lost out by one score to eventual beaten finalists New Zealand at that stage of the tournament.
O'Mahony, who will be 38/39 at the next World Cup, has not confirmed his retirement from the game, unlike some of his teammates. However, he took time out of his break to express his pride in the effort that fans, staff members, and players put into their World Cup adventure in Paris.
"Incredibly disappointed & gutted," said the Munster and Ireland legend on Instagram.
"It wasn’t just the past few months of preparation that went into this World Cup; it’s been 4 years of investment & hard work. However, in saying that, I’m also extremely proud of the team, our coaches, the staff & our families behind us every single day. The past two months have been an incredible highlight of my life even after the last result."
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The Ireland back rower now hopes that he and the current generation of Ireland players have inspired the upcoming rugby stars of tomorrow to follow them and emulate the success they have had on the rugby pitch.
"Hopefully, we have inspired some of the younger ones among us to play the game we love at club and school level…and who knows, they might be the ones representing our country in a few years' time. We have been blown away by the support in France and at home…beforehand, during, and since we arrived home. It’s truly been second to none. Thank you so much," he added.
The Cork native also gave a special mention to retirees Keith Earls and former Ireland captain Johnny Sexton, who have now finished with Ireland for good.
"To @Keith. Earls & @sexton_johnny10, you both have left @irishrugby in a better place. It’s been an honour to play alongside you both and have you as some of my best friends."
