It’s not about flags of our fathers, it’s purely about excellence in sport

It’s been quite the week for contrived crises over national identity.

It’s not about flags of our fathers, it’s purely about excellence in sport

After a summer during which sport showed the best of what nationhood can offer, two eloquent young stars born within complex borders used actions and words to try and bring the last remaining holdouts with them into the 21st century.

Nothing like patriotic fervour to stir up a storm. But none of the harshest critics of Andy Murray or Rory McIlroy could ever cope with the real adversities these two great men face when their only battle is ball and precision and not the flag under which they or their opponent happens to find themselves.

Already a subscriber? Sign in

You have reached your article limit.

Subscribe to access all of the Irish Examiner.

Annual €130 €80

Best value

Monthly €12€6 / month

More in this section

Sport

Newsletter

Latest news from the world of sport, along with the best in opinion from our outstanding team of sports writers. and reporters

Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited