FIRST HE CLAIMED to be Robbie Keane’s Irish cousin, now US President Barack Obama is paying tribute to rugby legend Brian O’Driscoll.
President Obama was speaking at the annual Shamrock ceremony at the White House in Washington, DC when he referenced O’Driscoll’s farewell to Test match rugby.
He said, “I’m especially grateful that they’re here at a time when the rest of Ireland is focused on the final round of the Six Nations rugby tournament and the last match of the legendary Brian O’Driscoll.”
The comments drew a cheer from the Irish contingent at the White House. An Taoiseach Enda Kenny was also in attendance but kept his composure, allowing himself the wryest of smiles.
Earlier in the day, Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore caught up with O’Driscoll in Paris to present the country’s leading try-scorer with a framed picture, marking his rugby exploits, on behalf of the Irish Government.
O’Driscoll will line out in the Irish 13 jersey for the final time at Stade de France from 5pm on Saturday as Joe Schmidt’s team chase Six Nations championship glory.
