While Ireland's Rugby World Cup quarter-final loss to New Zealand would have been crushing in any case, it was made all the worse by the fact that this would be the last time that we see Johnny Sexton play for his country.
The 38-year old has had a legendary career at both provincial and international level, winning countless honours with both Leinster and Ireland. He remained the most important player in both teams right up to the day he retired, a testament to his determination and commitment to the cause.
He will go down as perhaps the greatest rugby player this country has ever produced.
There were some emotional scenes after last night's final whistle. After the anger had subsided from his brief clash with Rieko Ioane, Johnny Sexton struggled to hold back the tears as he made his way around the pitch.
Joe Schmidt shares nice moment with Johnny Sexton son
Johnny Sexton shared a wonderful moment with his son after the game, with Luca doing his best to lift his father's spirits on what was sure to be a very difficult time for the player.
The Ireland players were quick to praise their teammate in the aftermath of the game, while the New Zealand camp did the same.
Joe Schmidt is someone who knows Sexton very well, having coached him at both Leinster and Ireland. He wished him all the best after the game, going on to have a heartwarming exchange with his son soon after.
The moment was captured by the television cameras.
"You gonna be a champion like your dad?"
A lovely moment last night as Joe Schmidt chats to Johnny Sexton's son after full-time. #IREvNZL | #RWC2023 pic.twitter.com/uBnuqVpSIU— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) October 15, 2023
Luca, I haven't seen you for a while mate! How are you?
Are you going to be a champion like your Dad? I hope so.
Is your Mum here? I'm going to say hi.
A lovely touch from Joe Schmidt, one of the real gents in top level rugby.
Luca Sexton is a keen rugby player himself, and if things go right for him over the coming years, that family's influence on Irish rugby might not be over just yet.
SEE ALSO: Johnny Sexton Involved In Angry Exchange With Rieko Ioane After Ireland Loss To All Blacks
