Plans are underway for a 'magnificent homecoming' for Kellie Harrington who has made history by winning back-to-back Olympic gold medals.
The Dublin boxer defeated China's Wenlu Yang in the Women's Lightweight Final in Paris last night.
The win means Harrington retains the Olympic title she won in Tokyo.
The 34-year-old becomes the first Irish boxer ever to contest, and win, back-to-back Olympic finals - making her the most successful Irish boxer at the Olympic Games.
Her Paris gold is the 19th Irish Olympic medal won in the sport of boxing.
'I want to retire a champion'
Speaking afterwards Harrington said she wanted to go out on a high.
"It just gives hope. All these young kids all these teenagers, it give hope to them, it gives hope to the people of Ireland, that’s what it means, but this one was for me," she said.
She said her plan now is to "just be happy - happy, smile and enjoy it.
"It’s the last hurrah – I’m done, I’ve always said that I want to retire a champion – that’s it".
Kellie Harrington celebrates with her wife Mandy after defeating Wenlu Yang of China in their women's 60kg final at the 2024 Paris Olympics, 6-8-24. Image: Brendan Moran/SportsfileDublin City Councillor Nial Ring said plans are afoot for a massive homecoming.
"Her family were joined by neighbours, friends and wellwishers as the Diamond Park crowd descended on nearby Portland Row which is now planning a magnificent homecoming befitting a double Olympic Champion which will, if possible, surpass the one from three years ago," he said.
"We are out of superlatives to describe Kellie's achievements; her positive impact on young people in the area and her commitment and dedication to her community.
"I proposed her for the Freedom of the City three years ago and I don't know how we can suitably acknowledge and reward her latest achievement - maybe Kellie for president?" he added.
'We could not be prouder of you'
Taoiseach Simon Harris said Harrington has inspired us all.
"Kellie Harrington you’ve made history," he said.
"On behalf of the Government and people of Ireland it is my joy as Taoiseach to say we could not be prouder of you.
"We are not only proud of you for becoming a double Olympic champion, but for how you carry yourself as a person and represent our country with distinction.
"You have inspired us all, young and old.
"You, your family, your coaches, and your community deserve every moment of this victory and celebration.
"All of Ireland is celebrating with you. What a legend".
President Michael D Higgins described her win as a "truly remarkable achievement by a phenomenal sportsperson".
Ireland's Kellie Harrington celebrates with her gold medal after defeating Wenlu Yang of China during their women's 60kg final at the 2024 Paris Olympics, 6-8-24. Image: Brendan Moran/SportsfileOnly three other Irish athletes have won back-to-back Olympics gold medals.
Hammer thrower Dr Pat O'Callaghan was the very first to do it back in 1928 and 1932, with rowers Fintan McCarthy and Paul O’Donovan repeating the feat with their 2020 win and by becoming Olympic champions in Paris.
Kellie Harrington now joins that exclusive club.
Team Ireland has won seven medals at Paris 2024; four gold across four different sports, and three bronze.
