Tributes for 'top class' Paul Curran after retirement decision

Tipperary stalwart Paul Curran announced his inter-county retirement last night, and tributes have poured in for the All-Ireland winner.

Curran had been a member of the Tipperary hurling panel for 14 years, making his debut against Cork in the Allianz League in 2001, followed by a first Championship appearance in 2002.

Paul Curran in action for Tipperary in the Allianz League in February.

In addition to winning the All-Ireland in 2010, the 33-year-old won four Munster titles with the Premier county. He also won a National Hurling League and was an All-Ireland runner-up on three occasions.

The full-back won an all-Star for his part in Tipperary’s All-Ireland win in 2010 and again in 2011.

Curran had taken part in Tipperary’s League campaign this season, but was yesterday released from the squad by manager Eamon O’Shea.

Well done to @TipperaryGAA's Paul Curran on a brilliant career & best wishes in retirement! #GAA pic.twitter.com/tFPy1YfHRK

— sportsfile (@sportsfile) May 1, 2015

In a statement on Tipperary GAA website Curran said:

“Having had the great honour of being a member of the Tipperary Senior hurling panel for the past 15 years, I have decided to call time on my inter-county hurling career. It was a huge privilege for me to wear the blue and gold and to represent my county.

“I am very grateful for the many opportunities and friendships that being part of this team has afforded me and I have many great memories that I will forever treasure.

“Finally, I want to wish Tipperary well for the future. I have great hopes for this team and have no doubt they will go on to bring many more honours to the county”.

Many former team-mates, opponents and GAA supporters have paid tribute to the player since his announcement.

Best wishes to Paul Curran on the announcement of his inter-county retirement. A fantastic servant to the blue & gold pic.twitter.com/br2FdKmIJb

— Tipperary Supporters Club (@TippSupporters) May 1, 2015

I had great pleasure playing beside Paul. Rarely put a foot wrong & always expected the best from himself & others. Well done Paul Curran!

— Paddy Stapleton (@pasaint) May 1, 2015

#ThankYou to Paul Curran for an incredible career serving @TipperaryGAA since 2001 #Players #GAA pic.twitter.com/A609xEFTpH

— GPA (@gaelicplayers) May 1, 2015