The realm of rugby is abuzz with excitement as esteemed Ireland full-back, Hugo Keenan, embarks on a surprising return to rugby sevens, potentially opening the door for a shot at Olympic gold in Paris 2024. This decision follows some recent disappointments in the 15-a-side game, including Ireland’s stunning defeat in the Rugby World Cup and a disappointing loss for his club, Leinster, in the Champions Cup final.
Keenan’s return to the sevens format is a rare move for a high-profile 15s player, as many have made the temporary shift to sevens in pursuit of Olympic success. Notably, players like Sonny Bill Williams, Semi Radradra, and Samu Kerevi have all participated in the Olympic Games, highlighting the allure of the sevens format.
For Keenan, a seasoned veteran of the Ireland Sevens program, this decision marks a significant return after a five-year absence. During his previous tenure, he played a crucial role in helping Ireland achieve third place in the London tournament and secure World Series qualification in Hong Kong in 2019. However, the landscape of the sevens game has evolved since then, with Ireland’s rise as a formidable force in the sport, demonstrated by the team’s strong performance in the 2023/24 series.
Keenan’s comeback presents challenges, as he will have to compete against formidable talents in Ireland’s sevens team, including prolific try-scorer Terry Kennedy. Nevertheless, Keenan has expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity, stating that he “loved” his time with the Sevens and reflecting on the past events that he helped the team qualify for.
The return of Antoine Dupont, the French scrum-half, to the sevens format after a disappointing World Cup exit has also provided inspiration for Keenan. Both players have chosen to forego certain 15s fixtures in pursuit of the Olympic dream, demonstrating their commitment to the faster-paced sevens game.
While it remains uncertain whether Keenan will have the same immediate impact as Dupont, his wealth of experience in high-stakes matches may prove invaluable for Ireland’s chances in the SVNS Grand Final in Madrid. From Six Nations triumphs to memorable victories on the global stage, Keenan’s track record as a big game player could be a key asset for Ireland’s bid to clinch the championship.
In the broader context, Keenan’s return to sevens reflects the enduring appeal and prestige of the Olympic Games. As athletes from various disciplines set their sights on Paris 2024, the allure of pursuing Olympic glory continues to captivate players like Keenan, driving them to make bold and unexpected decisions in pursuit of sporting immortality.