TJ Reid announces retirement from inter-county hurling

30 October 2026 - 4:27PM

TJ Reid of Kilkenny celebrates scoring his side's second goal during the 2025 Leinster GAA Senior Hurling Championship final match between Kilkenny and Galway at Croke Park in Dublin. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile

Kilkenny GAA today released the following press statement announcing TJ Reid's retirement from inter-county hurling:

TJ Reid has informed Kilkenny County Board of his decision to retire from inter-county hurling, bringing to a close one of the most remarkable playing careers in the history of the county.

For almost two decades, TJ has been an outstanding figure in the black and amber, representing Kilkenny with distinction and establishing himself as one of the greatest hurlers the game has ever seen. Known simply as 'TJ' to hurling supporters throughout Ireland and beyond, his name has become synonymous with exceptional skill, sporting excellence and a remarkable commitment to the game.

Since joining the Kilkenny senior panel in 2007, TJ has been central to so many of the county's greatest moments. His exceptional skill, scoring ability, aerial prowess, vision and instinctive understanding of the game were hallmarks of his remarkable career. Equally impressive was his ability to deliver on the biggest occasions, earning him the admiration and respect of teammates, opponents and supporters throughout the country.

Over the course of his outstanding inter-county career, TJ amassed an extraordinary collection of honours, including seven All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship titles, 14 Leinster Senior titles and five National Hurling League titles. Individually, he was recognised with seven All-Star awards and was named Hurler of the Year in 2015. His remarkable scoring achievements also saw him become the all-time leading scorer in senior hurling championship history, an extraordinary milestone in a career defined by excellence and consistency at the highest level.

His success extended well beyond the inter-county stage, with TJ also enjoying a hugely decorated club career with Shamrocks Ballyhale, winning six All-Ireland Senior Club titles and 13 Kilkenny Senior Hurling Championship titles.

A firm favourite among Kilkenny supporters, TJ had a special ability to lift a crowd and produce moments of brilliance when they mattered most. His exceptional skill, competitive spirit and ability to influence the biggest games made him one of the most admired players ever to wear the black and amber. He has given Kilkenny supporters countless moments to savour and memories that will endure long beyond his inter-county playing days.

Throughout his career, TJ has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to Kilkenny hurling. His dedication to preparation, his professionalism and his determination to perform at the highest level have set a standard for those around him.

Despite his remarkable achievements, TJ has remained modest and grounded, always placing the team ahead of individual recognition. His sportsmanship and the respect he has shown to teammates and opponents alike have made him a wonderful example for younger players and earned him admiration throughout the wider hurling community.

TJ leaves behind an extraordinary legacy in Kilkenny hurling, not only through the honours he has won and the records he has set, but through the example he has given to generations of young hurlers.

Kilkenny GAA Chairman PJ Kenny paid tribute to TJ, saying:

"TJ Reid has given extraordinary service to Kilkenny hurling over almost twenty years. His achievements speak for themselves, but it is the manner in which he represented Kilkenny, his commitment to the jersey and the standards he set throughout his career that will leave a lasting impression.

He has been a wonderful ambassador for Kilkenny GAA and a firm favourite with our supporters, who have enjoyed so many memorable moments thanks to his exceptional talent. On behalf of Kilkenny GAA, I want to sincerely thank TJ for everything he has given to our county."

Kilkenny GAA extends its sincere gratitude to TJ for his outstanding service to the county and acknowledges the invaluable support of his family, Shamrocks Ballyhale and all those who have contributed to his remarkable inter-county career.

We wish TJ and his family every happiness and success in the years ahead.

Go raibh míle maith agat, TJ.

Honours

7 All-Ireland SHC (2007-2009, 2011, 2012, 2014, 2015)

14 Leinster SHC (2007-2011, 2014-2016, 2020-2025)

1 Leinster Walsh Shield (2026)

5 NHL (2009, 2011, 2014, 2018, 2021)

2 Walsh Cup (2012, 2017)

1 Railway Cup (2012)

2 All-Ireland U21 HC (2006, 2008)

3 Leinster U21 HC (2006-2008)

1 Fitzgibbon Cup (2008)