Keith Earls talks retirement, coffee and possibility of coaching role

MUNSTER and Ireland rugby legend Keith Earls has spoken of how he is enjoying his retirement and the possibility of a career in coaching in the future.

Keith was speaking at the Limerick Person of the Year Awards on Thursday where he was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Playing on the wing for both his province and country, Keith retired from rugby in 2023 after Ireland’s exit from the Rugby World Cup.

The 36-year-old finished his career with 36 Test tries to his name, leaving him second only behind Brian O’Driscoll in Ireland’s all-time try-scoring chart, while Earls scored 64 tries in 202 appearances for Munster.

Keith was given the award at the Limerick Person of the Year awards at the Clayton Hotel in Limerick city this Thursday. Proud wife, Edel, said she had never seen him cry before.

READ MORE: 'I've never seen him cry before': says Keith Earls' wife as he accepts Lifetime Achievement Award

A visibly emotional Keith said: "I'm crying and I'm embarrassed". He said to the packed room "what a time to start grieving my rugby career".

"I genuinely haven't stopped - I’ve gone into the coffee business literally the day after I got back from the World Cup and I should have known that's not how you deal with things, putting it to the back of your mind.

"It’s bad timing but I’m happy it is happening in front of all my Limerick people. I think Edel should be up here for a Lifetime Achievement Award for putting up with me!" said Keith, who added that "I've lived my dream" during his long and illustrious rugby career.

Following the ceremony, Keith sat down with Limerick Live's Sport Report Siadbh Redmond to discuss the award, his retirement and what the future holds for him.