AFL star Majak Daw is in a stable condition in hospital after falling from Melbourne’s Bolte Bridge into the Yarra River late on Monday night.
Police officers were called after the 27-year-old North Melbourne footballer fell from the bridge, near Lorimer Street, at about 11pm.
Emergency services found him in the Yarra River.
He was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, Victoria Police said.
North Melbourne Football Club issued a statement confirming Daw was “recovering in hospital after an incident last night”.
“At this stage, the full extent of his injuries are unknown.”
There are reports the star player has a broken hip.
The club said it’s providing full support to Daw and his family and will provide updates when appropriate.
“We understand the level of interest, but ask the privacy of the player, his family, team mates and staff at the club be respected at this sensitive time.”
Since joining the Kangaroos, Daw has become a key figure in the AFL and the local community.
As an AFL multicultural ambassador, he has spoken out against racism and is widely considered a role model for aspiring young footballers.
Having fled war-torn Sudan, Daw and his family moved to Australia in 2003.
He was selected by North Melbourne at the 2010 rookie draft and became the first Sudanese-born player to make an AFL debut when he played his first senior game against the Brisbane Lions in round four of the 2013 season.
The 195cm utility struggled to establish himself as a regular player at the elite level until this year when he enjoyed a breakout campaign.
Having played predominantly as a forward and a ruckman, coach Brad Scott switched him to defence where he flourished, making 18 senior appearances to reach his 50-game career milestone.
Lifeline 13 11 14
beyondblue 1300 22 4636
© AAP 2018
