Max King Out for 2026 Season After Hamstring Injury in First AFL Game for St Kilda
Max King's return to the AFL has been cut short due to a hamstring injury, marking another setback in his challenging journey back to the sport. After two years away from the game, King made his long-awaited appearance for St Kilda against North Melbourne, only to leave the field in the third quarter due to tightness in his hamstring. This injury, confirmed by scans, has ruled him out for the remainder of the 2026 season, a disappointing turn of events for both King and the Saints. The 26-year-old forward has faced a series of injuries since 2024, including knee and soft-tissue issues, which have hindered his ability to contribute to the team consistently. St Kilda's general manager of football, Lenny Hayes, expressed deep disappointment over the situation, emphasizing King's importance to the club and the support he will receive during his recovery. The focus now shifts to ensuring that King can undertake a full pre-season, aiming for a strong return in 2027. Despite King's absence, the Saints remain in contention for the finals, currently sitting in 10th place. However, losing a key player like King is undoubtedly a blow to their aspirations for the upcoming September matches. The team will need to rally together to compensate for his absence as they navigate the final stretch of the season. In related news, GWS midfielder Finn Callaghan is also facing a significant setback, requiring season-ending ankle surgery after sustaining an injury during a recent derby match against Sydney. With both teams grappling with injuries to pivotal players, the remainder of the season promises to be challenging as they strive to secure their positions in the finals race.
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