St Kilda’s star forward, Max King, has been ruled out for the entirety of the 2025 AFL season after undergoing surgery on his right knee. The surgery, performed on Monday, aimed to repair damage that has plagued the 24-year-old since February.
The club confirmed that King was nearing a return to the field in recent weeks but experienced a “clunking” sensation in his knee, prompting further investigation. This unexpected setback led to the decision for surgery, as explained by Saints’ football manager, David Misson.
“Max’s case has not been simple nor linear, and we’ve attempted to adequately keep our members and fans up to date while maintaining Max’s privacy,” Misson stated. “Following further consultations and imaging, we feel the cause of Max’s issue has been pinpointed and the operation aimed to address and repair this issue.”
Max King’s Journey and Challenges
Max King first suffered the knee injury during an intraclub match in February, which initially required an arthroscope. Despite a promising recovery, a subsequent setback in April necessitated additional surgery. This series of injuries has been a significant hurdle for King, who has been a key player for St Kilda since being drafted with pick No.4 in the 2018 national draft.
King’s impact on the field has been substantial, with 159 goals from 83 games. His performance secured him a lucrative contract extension last year, binding him to the Saints until the end of 2032. This long-term commitment underscores his value to the team, both as a player and a leader.
Expert Insights and Future Implications
According to sports medicine experts, knee injuries of this nature can be complex and challenging to manage. Dr. Sarah Thompson, a leading sports physician, noted, “Knee injuries, especially those involving the medial aspect, can be unpredictable. The key is ensuring a comprehensive rehabilitation process to prevent future complications.”
The operation is expected to keep King off his legs for several months, but the club remains optimistic about his return for the pre-season. “Max’s grit and resilience have remained incredibly strong,” Misson added, highlighting the player’s determination and the club’s support.
Broader Impact on St Kilda’s Season
Meanwhile, the Saints face additional challenges with young talent Mattaes Phillipou also sidelined due to a plantaris tendon injury. Phillipou, who was removed from the starting lineup just before the opening bounce against Collingwood, is expected to miss several weeks. This comes after he was already out for the first two months of the season due to a stress fracture in his femur.
St Kilda currently sits 15th on the ladder with a 5-9 record, facing a crucial match against Fremantle on Sunday. The absence of key players like King and Phillipou could impact their performance as they strive to improve their standing.
Looking Ahead
The Saints’ management is focused on supporting King’s recovery and preparing for the upcoming pre-season. With a robust rehabilitation plan in place, the club is hopeful that King will return to his peak form. As the team navigates the remainder of the season, the emphasis will be on leveraging their depth and nurturing emerging talents to fill the void left by injured players.
As the Saints regroup and strategize for the future, the resilience and adaptability of the team will be put to the test. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how St Kilda maneuvers through these challenges and what strategies they employ to bounce back in the coming seasons.
