Despite being a relatively small country, there is no denying that Ireland has been able to produce its fair share of sporting talent over the years.
Whether it be sportspeople from the past or those that currently compete who hail from The Emerald Isle, there are several individuals who could perhaps be considered to be amongst some of the biggest to have ever been born in the country.
In this article, we will look at some of those who have made an impression in the sports that they have participated in and look to provide a reason why they must be considered one of Ireland’s biggest sports stars!
Rachael Blackmore
Born in Killenaule, Rachael Blackmore has become one of the most famous jockeys in the world due to what she has managed to achieve in the last couple of years, with the national hunt jockey having enjoyed huge success.
Indeed, if she was to appear in Galway for the Festival, there will be many that would be thinking about participating in the Galway Races betting markets that are made available, as she has been exceptional.
Blackmore had an incredible 2021, as she managed to be the leading jockey at the Cheltenham Festival with six wins, whilst also becoming the first female jockey in the 182-year existence of the Grand National to win the event. She followed that up in 2022 by winning the Cheltenham Gold Cup; thus, becoming the first female jockey to win this race, too!
Conor McGregor
Arguably one of the biggest sportspeople to hail from Ireland that is known around the world, Conor McGregor has been incredibly successful and has been able to create a brand and reputation for himself all around the planet.
Of course, much of that has been whilst performing in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), as he competed in some of the biggest fights to have ever taken place inside the Octagon for the promotion.
He has been recognized for his fighting style, and perhaps for his persona, whilst the success that he had regarding the various championship titles he managed to win all help to highlight just why he is considered to be one of Ireland’s biggest sports stars.
Becky Lynch
Perhaps stereotypically known for their toughness and fighting culture, it perhaps should not come as a surprise to learn that another fighter is considered to be one of the biggest sports stars that are currently active.
Becky Lynch is one of the top female athletes in the WWE now, with the Irish performer having been able to carve an incredible career for herself within professional wrestling.
Like McGregor, she has been able to win several different titles, including being a history maker when she managed to become both the Raw Women’s Championship and the SmackDown Women’s Championship at the same time.
Final Thoughts
As mentioned, there are several sports stars to hail from Ireland, however, the three mentioned perhaps have to be considered to be amongst the biggest at the moment for a variety of different reasons.