4 days ago
Dublin GAA legend and nine-time All-Ireland winner reveals ‘tough love' from dad led to them ‘not talking for months'
He explained why it made him a better player
TOUGH TALK Dublin GAA legend and nine-time All-Ireland winner reveals 'tough love' from dad led to them 'not talking for months'
JAMES McCARTHY revealed an episode of tough love from his dad led to them "not talking for a couple of months".
However, the nine-time All-Ireland winner believes his dad's high standards counted in his favour later in his career.
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James McCarthy revealed an incident of tough love from his dad inspired his high standards with Dublin
Credit: Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile
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James McCarthy, Stephen Cluxton and Michael Fitzsimons are the only men to win the All-Ireland SFC nine times Brendan Moran/Sportsfile
Credit: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile
McCarthy, 35, sat down with Bernard Dunne on an episode of Dunne Talks to reflect on his GAA career.
And he revealed an incident where his dad gave him a fierce talking to after a club game in which he scored a goal.
The Ballymun Kickhams man said: "He said 'You were an embarrassment... you were a disgrace today. You actually embarrassed me and your brother. You weren't going for the ball, you weren't tackling. You were swanning around, thought you were great.'"
While it led to a temporary falling-out between the two, the five-time All-Star admitted it made him a better player down the line.
He added: "I got real thick. Told him to F off.
"We didn't talk for a couple months after. But he was dead right.
"We had a little bit of that in the first few years but once he felt I was on the right path, probably about 21, he said 'I'll let him off and let him figure it out himself.'"
The career James McCarthy forged speaks for itself.
He is one of only three Dublin players to win the Sam Maguire nine times, the others being Stephen Cluxton and Michael Fitzsimons.
McCarthy captained Dessie Farrell's men to the milestone when they beat then-defending champions Kerry in 2023.
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Meanwhile, his CV boasts 14 Leinster titles and five National Leagues, alongside a provincial and All-Ireland medal with the U21s.
McCarthy is also distinguished with Ballymun Kickhams, with whom he has won two Dublin SFC crowns and the 2012 Leinster club championship.
Off the field, his life as been blossoming, having welcomed the birth of his first son back in February 2024.
He announced his inter-county retirement in November 2024 with an emotional statement which prompted tributes aplenty.
He said: "I have decided to retire from representing Dublin GAA at intercounty level.
"This decision hasn't been an easy one to make but I feel it's the right time.
"I have been very fortunate to be involved in a golden period for Dublin GAA and I have played with the most incredible group of players.
"It really has been some of the best days of my life and I have memories to last a lifetime.
"The loyalty and friendship we have built is something I will always be thankful for.
"To the Dublin fans thank you for the support of the team throughout the years.
"Walking around Croke Park and passing Hill 16 is a memory that I will never forget.
"To my parents John and Marian, my family, my close friends, and my wife Clodagh, thank you for supporting me throughout my football career.
"Your unwavering belief in me has helped more than you will ever know."
