Northern Edition

Select Edition

Northern Northern
Southern Southern
Global Global
New Zealand New Zealand
France France

‘Set the standard’: Hugo Keenan’s praise for ‘phenomenal’ Antoine Dupont

Antoine Dupont of France looks on during the HSBC Madrid Rugby Sevens match between France andGreat Britain at Civitas Metropolitano Stadium on June 01, 2024 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Ireland’s 2023 Grand Slam-winning fullback Hugo Keenan has praised fellow SVNS Series convert Antoine Dupont for setting a “very, very high standard” for other players looking to switch to rugby union’s shorter format.

ADVERTISEMENT

Just last week, Keenan started at fullback for Leinster in their Champions Cup Final against Toulouse at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The Irish heavyweights fell short 33-21 in an extra-time classic with French halfback Antoine Dupont standing out.

Dupont, who captained France at last year’s Rugby World Cup on home soil, was recognised as the Investec Player of the Year after the hard-fought European final triumph. That performance has led some fans to call Dupont the ‘greatest of all time.’

But it’s not just fans singing Dupont’s praises.

Keenan and Dupont were included in their respective national squads for the SVNS Series Grand Final at Madrid’s Civitas Metropolitano from May 31 to June 2. Both men were impressive over the three days.

Once Ireland had played their final match in the Spanish capital, Keenan stopped to reflect on his return to rugby sevens. Keenan joked about needing “an extra pair of lungs” but was positive about the experience.

Then, a reporter asked him about Dupont’s form.

With Dupont making a remarkable return himself, which included a must-see try against Great Britain on Saturday, the familiar rival described the Frenchman as a “phenomenal” rugby player.

“I’ve obviously been watching him a lot with Toulouse and with the sevens, he’s phenomenal isn’t he? You saw even his try last night and the difference he can make.,” Keenan told reporters, including RugbyPass.

ADVERTISEMENT

“He was obviously brilliant on the weekend for Toulouse against us and we had a quick word after the game, a quick word in the corridor during the week in the hotel, wishing each other well.

“He’s set the standard for players coming into sevens now, and that’s a very, very high standard.”

Related

For all the praise and attention Dupont received during the tournament, Keenan almost seemed to fly under the radar at times. The Irishman has played sevens before, and after returning to the sport for the first time in years, he slotted right back in.

Keenan was named in Ireland’s starting side more times than not. The two-time Six Nations champion’s moment of the tournament came in a decisive pool stage clash against New Zealand, with Keenan scoring a try in the final play to send the match to golden point.

ADVERTISEMENT

But generally, Keenan more than held his own during an impressive comeback. With Jordan Conroy and Terry Kennedy expected to don the green jersey at the Paris Olympics next month, there’s every chance that Ireland can challenge for a medal.

“It’s been a very busy year for me, that’s the exciting part. I suppose it was put on the table a while back but it was always going to be a bit of a last-minute decision,” Keenan explained.

“I’d been injured since the Six Nations and that threw a bit of a spanner in the works. Prior to that, I was trying to just focus on Leinster and the Champions Cup because that’s where my career is and where I had to fully focus and commit one hundred percent.

“The opportunity came about pretty late on and because the lads were doing so well this year, I had a few chats with a few coaches, a few of the actual playing squad and everybody seemed keen to get me on board.

“These opportunities don’t come around too often. I had to make a tough decision, but hopefully, it’s one that I won’t regret and I’ll fully commit to now over the next few weeks and see what happens.”

Catch all of the SVNS Madrid action for free on RugbyPass TV. To watch the Grand Final, register HERE.

ADVERTISEMENT

Boks Office | Episode 39 | The Investec Champions Cup is back

Argentina v France | HSBC SVNS Hong Kong 2025 | Men's Match Highlights

New Zealand v Australia | HSBC SVNS Hong Kong 2025 | Women's Match Highlights

Tokyo Sungoliath vs Shizuoka BlueRevs | Japan Rugby League One 2024/25 | Full Match Replay

Reds vs Force | Super Rugby W 2025 | Full Match Replay

The Rise of Kenya | The Report

New Zealand in Hong Kong | Brady Rush | Sevens Wonders | Episode 4

The Fixture: How This Rugby Rivalry Has Lasted 59 Years

Trending on RugbyPass

Comments

0 Comments
Be the first to comment...

Join free and tell us what you really think!

Sign up for free
ADVERTISEMENT

Latest Features

Comments on RugbyPass

P
Patrickhill300 30 minutes ago
Can 'great' Gibson-Park best 'freakish' Dupont in scrum-half clash for the ages?

Learn how to recover lost or stolen cryptocurrency with thorough methods and professional advice. This procedure entails comprehending the complexities of blockchain technology, seeing possible weaknesses, and using cutting-edge recovery methods. You may improve the security of your digital assets by learning about the different techniques that hackers employ. Furthermore, using expert recovery tools and services can greatly improve your chances of recovering cryptocurrency that has been lost or stolen. To protect your investments in the constantly changing world of digital currencies, be proactive and knowledgeable. My name is Patrick Hills, and I would like to talk about how I became a victim of a fraudulent investment scheme nine weeks ago. I couldn't resist the allure of this company's claim to double my income in two weeks. However, the company turned out to be fraudulent, thus I ended up in the wrong hands. They requested more money when I tried to withdraw my alleged earnings after the allotted time. When I learned I had lost everything I had invested, it was a sad time. I started learning how to recover cryptocurrency that has been lost or stolen. In my frustration and desperation, I turned to the internet, hoping to find a solution or at least some guidance. During my search, I stumbled upon numerous reviews praising Wizard James for his expertise in helping people recover lost cryptocurrency. Intrigued and hopeful, I reached out to him for assistance.  In addition to recovering my stolen Bitcoin, Wizard James Recovery spent time teaching me Java coding. I now possess the knowledge necessary to better defend myself against scams of this nature in the future thanks to my newfound ability. Wizard James Recovery has given me greater security and knowledge about protecting my digital assets.Do not hesitate to get in touch with Wizard James Recovery if you need assistance recovering your stolen cryptocurrencies in a similar circumstance. His knowledge and advice can be quite helpful in getting back what you've lost and giving you the means to avoid losing it again.In conclusion, retrieving lost or stolen cryptocurrency calls for a trifecta of resources, awareness, and diligence. You may better safeguard your digital assets by being aware of potential dangers and comprehending the intricacies of blockchain technology. Asking professionals like Wizard James for help Your chances of recovering and gaining useful talents to stop losses in the future can both be greatly increased with Wizard James Recovery. To protect your interests in the ever-changing world of digital currencies, remain knowledgeable, proactive, and armed with the required resources. Reach them at WIZARDJAMESRECOVERY@USA.COM right now. 

8 Go to comments
P
Patrickhill300 47 minutes ago
Mixed Wales update on availability of Josh Adams, Gareth Anscombe

Learn how to recover lost or stolen cryptocurrency with thorough methods and professional advice. This procedure entails comprehending the complexities of blockchain technology, seeing possible weaknesses, and using cutting-edge recovery methods. You may improve the security of your digital assets by learning about the different techniques that hackers employ. Furthermore, using expert recovery tools and services can greatly improve your chances of recovering cryptocurrency that has been lost or stolen. To protect your investments in the constantly changing world of digital currencies, be proactive and knowledgeable. My name is Patrick Hills, and I would like to talk about how I became a victim of a fraudulent investment scheme nine weeks ago. I couldn't resist the allure of this company's claim to double my income in two weeks. However, the company turned out to be fraudulent, thus I ended up in the wrong hands. They requested more money when I tried to withdraw my alleged earnings after the allotted time. When I learned I had lost everything I had invested, it was a sad time. I started learning how to recover cryptocurrency that has been lost or stolen. In my frustration and desperation, I turned to the internet, hoping to find a solution or at least some guidance. During my search, I stumbled upon numerous reviews praising Wizard James for his expertise in helping people recover lost cryptocurrency. Intrigued and hopeful, I reached out to him for assistance.  In addition to recovering my stolen Bitcoin, Wizard James Recovery spent time teaching me Java coding. I now possess the knowledge necessary to better defend myself against scams of this nature in the future thanks to my newfound ability. Wizard James Recovery has given me greater security and knowledge about protecting my digital assets.Do not hesitate to get in touch with Wizard James Recovery if you need assistance recovering your stolen cryptocurrencies in a similar circumstance. His knowledge and advice can be quite helpful in getting back what you've lost and giving you the means to avoid losing it again.In conclusion, retrieving lost or stolen cryptocurrency calls for a trifecta of resources, awareness, and diligence. You may better safeguard your digital assets by being aware of potential dangers and comprehending the intricacies of blockchain technology. Asking professionals like Wizard James for help Your chances of recovering and gaining useful talents to stop losses in the future can both be greatly increased with Wizard James Recovery. To protect your interests in the ever-changing world of digital currencies, remain knowledgeable, proactive, and armed with the required resources. Reach them at WIZARDJAMESRECOVERY@USA.COM right now. 

4 Go to comments
J
JW 1 hour ago
'I'm really disappointed': Former All Blacks disagree with Anzac Test outcome

Well obviously NZR is not beholden to revenue then Marshall.


And it simply never was a revenue issue. The AFL and NRL milk the ANZACs deaths and sacrifice for their own personal gain, they did not make their decisions based on “the rugby”, it’s all about taking over the day for the financial benefit. Why would NZR want to be a apart of that? We know RA would, but more than ever they are driven by the bottom line, and not the values that will be the factor in NZRs decision.


So you need to get outside you bubble Tim Horan and think about reality. First, did Australians need something to do on ANZAC day (assuming it was for the weekend celebration day proposal) or have they been brainwashed into disconnecting with their mates and connecting with the TV. What purpose does it provide other than financially essentially? Then ask yourself that same question for the communities out side of that, through Aus and then into NZ and around the pacific, world even.


We don’t need your shortshighted aussie brain calling out NZR thanks.


NZR also doesn’t want to destroy a good thing that is SRs revival amongst wider entertainment enjoyer base, and having a SR break/interruption was a big driver towards fans turning off previously. You’d have to wait at least a few years before they feel comfortable in disrupting that again. Actually having it at the beggining of 2027, World Cup year in Australia, might actually be the most sensible thing (though I actually really like Utiku’s idea). It would both drum up support and get the spotlight on rugby early in the season, helping anticipation/buildup for the big event, and more importantly, give the sides an extra game that year to get things right for a tilt at thge trophy.

10 Go to comments
T
THE HACK ANGELS RECOVERY EXPERT 3 hours ago
English rugby pundits and fans really need to get a grip

RECOVER YOUR STOLEN BITCOIN / USDT OR MONEY LOST TO SCAMMERSThis is to notify anyone looking to reclaim his\her bitcoin lost to   scammers. For a successful recovery procedure, I advise you to get in touch with THE HACK ANGELS RECOVERY EXPERT. They are the best in recovery of lost funds. They have a background in cybersecurity and have obtained licenses and certifications that have equipped them with the necessary skills to recover lost funds. Everyone should be careful and stop being deceived by all these online scammers? I lost about $985,000 to these online scammersThis made me very unhappy and upset. I had no idea what to do. A friend recommended me to a recovery expert called THE HACK ANGELS RECOVERY EXPERT. After a few hours of working with them, I was shocked to learn that they had recovered all of my stolen  bitcoin in just 48 hours. I said that I will not hold this to myself but share it to the public so that all scammed victims can get their funds back. I advise everyone seeking to recover their lost bitcoin wallet, any online scam. Reach out to THE HACK ANGELS RECOVERY EXPERT. I am so happy to get my funds back and to share the good news to whom it may concern. I can't keep but share this information particularly to anyone else in a similar situation who wants to recover lost assets. Contact inform:  WhatsApp +1(520)200-2320 ) or shoot them an Email at (support@thehackangels.com) They also have a great Website at (www.thehackangels.com

6 Go to comments
T
THE HACK ANGELS RECOVERY EXPERT 3 hours ago
Duhan van der Merwe's Lions tour thrown into doubt

RECOVER YOUR STOLEN BITCOIN / USDT OR MONEY LOST TO SCAMMERSThis is to notify anyone looking to reclaim his\her bitcoin lost to   scammers. For a successful recovery procedure, I advise you to get in touch with THE HACK ANGELS RECOVERY EXPERT. They are the best in recovery of lost funds. They have a background in cybersecurity and have obtained licenses and certifications that have equipped them with the necessary skills to recover lost funds. Everyone should be careful and stop being deceived by all these online scammers? I lost about $985,000 to these online scammersThis made me very unhappy and upset. I had no idea what to do. A friend recommended me to a recovery expert called THE HACK ANGELS RECOVERY EXPERT. After a few hours of working with them, I was shocked to learn that they had recovered all of my stolen  bitcoin in just 48 hours. I said that I will not hold this to myself but share it to the public so that all scammed victims can get their funds back. I advise everyone seeking to recover their lost bitcoin wallet, any online scam. Reach out to THE HACK ANGELS RECOVERY EXPERT. I am so happy to get my funds back and to share the good news to whom it may concern. I can't keep but share this information particularly to anyone else in a similar situation who wants to recover lost assets. Contact inform:  WhatsApp +1(520)200-2320 ) or shoot them an Email at (support@thehackangels.com) They also have a great Website at (www.thehackangels.com

1 Go to comments
T
THE HACK ANGELS RECOVERY EXPERT 3 hours ago
Bath Rugby turnover breaks £20m but losses increase

RECOVER YOUR STOLEN BITCOIN / USDT OR MONEY LOST TO SCAMMERSThis is to notify anyone looking to reclaim his\her bitcoin lost to   scammers. For a successful recovery procedure, I advise you to get in touch with THE HACK ANGELS RECOVERY EXPERT. They are the best in recovery of lost funds. They have a background in cybersecurity and have obtained licenses and certifications that have equipped them with the necessary skills to recover lost funds. Everyone should be careful and stop being deceived by all these online scammers? I lost about $985,000 to these online scammersThis made me very unhappy and upset. I had no idea what to do. A friend recommended me to a recovery expert called THE HACK ANGELS RECOVERY EXPERT. After a few hours of working with them, I was shocked to learn that they had recovered all of my stolen  bitcoin in just 48 hours. I said that I will not hold this to myself but share it to the public so that all scammed victims can get their funds back. I advise everyone seeking to recover their lost bitcoin wallet, any online scam. Reach out to THE HACK ANGELS RECOVERY EXPERT. I am so happy to get my funds back and to share the good news to whom it may concern. I can't keep but share this information particularly to anyone else in a similar situation who wants to recover lost assets. Contact inform:  WhatsApp +1(520)200-2320 ) or shoot them an Email at (support@thehackangels.com) They also have a great Website at (www.thehackangels.com

0 Go to comments
TRENDING
TRENDING Duhan van der Merwe's Lions tour thrown into doubt Edinburgh face anxious wait over Duhan van der Merwe
Search