July27 Ahern

Ireland’s Taoiseach Bertie Ahern has described Padraig Harrington as “a national sporting hero” following the Dubliner’s victory at the Open Championship.

The 35-year-old beat Sergio Garcia in a dramatic play-off at Carnoustie, making him the first Irishman to win a Major since Fred Daly’s Open victory at Hoylake some 60 years ago.

Harrington and wife Caroline, along with the famous Claret Jug, attended a ceremony at Government Buildings in Dublin, where Ahern heaped praise on the likeable Harrington.

Ahern said: “We salute your skill and courage, and the manner in which you maintained your composure.

“We admired the brilliant yet calm and calculating way you played. It truly was a privilege to watch you rise to the occasion in the climax to one of the finest Opens in history.”

Harrington was delighted with the tribute and said: “It’s lovely not only to get recognition like that but also to have the opportunity to say thankyou as well. This is very special, it really is.”

Picture by Getty Images