Report: Football Star Reflects on Life-Changing Car Crash and Road to Recovery | OneFootball

Michail Antonio’s Near-Fatal Crash: A Journey of Recovery and Redemption

West Ham forward Michail Antonio has opened up about his terrifying car crash in December, an incident that left him hospitalised for over three weeks with a shattered leg. Speaking to BBC Sport, Antonio shared the emotional and physical toll of the accident, his rehabilitation journey, and his determination to return to professional football.



A Life-Changing Moment

Antonio was driving home after a routine training session when his Ferrari lost control and struck a tree in Epping Forest. Recalling the event, he admits: “The police came and when they found me, I was in between the two seats. I wasn’t actually in the driver’s seat.” The force of the impact was so severe that Antonio suffered a broken femur in four places, requiring extensive surgery.

Despite initial fears over his ability to walk again, let alone play football, Antonio remains steadfast in his belief that he will return to the pitch. “I know that I’ll play again,” he said. “It’s the biggest injury I’ve ever had in my career, but I’m already two to three months ahead of where I should be.”

Rehabilitation and Mental Resilience

Antonio’s road to recovery has been gruelling. His first surgeon recommended that he put no weight on his leg for three months, but a second specialist advised a gradual increase in load-bearing activity. Now, he is working six days a week in the gym to accelerate his rehabilitation.

A key part of Antonio’s healing process has been psychological therapy. Having previously struggled with personal losses, including the death of his father, he acknowledges that therapy has helped him cope with trauma. “Since the crash, I’ve been more emotional than I have ever been in my life,” he admitted. “But I feel like it’s better.”

West Ham’s Support and Antonio’s Gratitude

The crash came at a difficult time for Antonio, as West Ham changed managers with Graham Potter replacing Julen Lopetegui. The 34-year-old admitted that having a new boss while being sidelined added to his stress, but he remains focused on his recovery rather than rushing back prematurely.

West Ham have provided unwavering support, covering Antonio’s medical expenses, arranging rehabilitation sessions, and even organising charity events to raise funds for the emergency services that rescued him. His teammates also rallied behind him, with Jarrod Bowen dedicating a goal celebration to him and the entire squad warming up in Antonio’s shirt before a match.

“I’m definitely a West Ham fan now,” Antonio said, acknowledging the club’s role in his recovery. “What the club did for me, the support they gave me on and off the field, the hospitals and the specialists, was unbelievable.”

Future on the Pitch and Beyond

Antonio remains determined to make a full return to football. “I was one of the quickest at West Ham. My body wasn’t the body of a 34-year-old before the accident anyway. I can still be sharp and still do the business.”

One thing he is certain about, however, is avoiding sports cars in the near future. “I’ve always been a fan of sports cars, but they are not my friends,” he admitted. “Right now, I have a Mercedes people carrier and my brother is my driver.”

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Antonio’s story is more than just a comeback tale—it’s a reminder of the fragility of life and the resilience of professional athletes. His commitment to returning to the pitch despite a devastating injury is a testament to his character and work ethic.

West Ham supporters, in particular, will be encouraged by his determination. Antonio has been a key figure at the club for years, and his return could be an emotional and inspiring moment for the team. The way the club has stood by him also speaks volumes about West Ham’s values and how they treat their players.

From a broader perspective, Antonio’s experience serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of high-performance cars and adverse weather conditions. His openness about seeking therapy also sets an example for athletes and fans alike about the importance of mental health support in overcoming life’s challenges.

As Antonio works his way back to full fitness, one thing is certain—his journey will be closely followed, not just by West Ham fans, but by the wider football community. If anyone can defy the odds and make a triumphant return, it’s Michail Antonio.