Cork star Seán Óg Ó hAilpín has announced his retirement from inter-county hurling.

The Na Piarsaigh defender, who captained his Cork county to their last All-Ireland SHC title in 2005, has revealed his decision to hang up his boots after 16 years of service with the Rebels, stating that it's time to seek "new challenges and opportunities".

The former 'Hurler of the Year' won three All-Ireland medals (1999, 2004 and 2005) along with a minor success in 1995 and Under 21 honours in 1997 and 1998. The 35-year-old has been a talismanic figure for the Cork hurlers under a number of different coaches and was one of the key figures in the strike actions by the Cork panel.

In 2010, he revealed that he was forced into retirement as then manager Denis Walsh had no plans for the former dual star, but the following year saw him make a return to the number seven jersey for the Leesiders.

At club level, O hAilpín won county SHC medals with Na Piarsaigh in 1995 and 2004, while he also represented Cork in football at minor, U21 and senior level, losing to Meath in 1999 All-Ireland SFC final, when he played at full-back.

In 2004 and 2005, O hAilpín also played International Rules for Ireland.

Here is O hAilpín's statement in full: "I wish to announce my retirement from inter-county hurling. This time it's for good.

"I always felt it was premature to end my career in 2010. It was great to get the opportunity this year to re-establish myself in the team and contribute in a meaningful way to Cork.

"As I close this chapter of my life, I look forward with enthusiasm to the new challenges and opportunities I may encounter.

"I would like to thank all the players I played with over my sixteen year career. I have always taken immense pride in wearing the Cork jersey and representing the county I love. I wish the Cork team the best of luck and success in their future endeavours.

"I'd like to extend a big thank you to my coaches, managers, medical and backroom teams and all the friends I've made throughout my hurling career on and off the field.

"I would like to thank all of the Cork and GAA supporters around the country for their phenomenal support over the years.

"Particular thank you to all my family and special thanks to Siobhán.

"I do not wish to make any further comment on this matter.

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