AFL star Majak Daw hospitalised after falling from bridge

AFL star Majak Daw has been hospitalised following a serious incident on Melbourne’s Bolte Bridge.

According to multiple reports, the North Melbourne Kangaroos player fell from the bridge near Lorimer Street in the Docklands precinct of the city.

The North Melbourne Football Club released a statement on Tuesday morning, confirming Daw was recovering in hospital following the incident. Initial reports claimed he had suffered a broken hip, but the club said the full extent of his injuries wasn’t know.

“The North Melbourne Football Club can confirm Majak Daw is recovering in hospital after an incident last night,” a statement released on the club’s website read. “At this stage the full extent of his injuries are unknown, however he is in a stable condition.

“The club is providing full support to Majak and his family and will give a further update when it is in a position to do so. We understand the level of interest but ask the privacy of the player, his family, teammates and staff at the club be respected at this sensitive time.”

A police spokesperson told Starts at 60 Victoria Police can’t comment on individuals, but did confirm an incident occurred on Bolte Bridge on Monday evening.

“Police were called to reports a man had fallen from the Bolte Bridge, near Lorimer Street, about 11pm,” the spokesperson said. “Emergency services attended and located a man in the Yarra River. The man, aged in his 20s, was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.”

Friends and football players have flooded social media with messages of support for Daw.

“Thoughts and prayers are with you @majakdaw hoping for some good news,” Carlton star Sam Docherty said on Twitter.

Podcast host Chad Ruan said his thoughts were with his “mate”.

“The entire country is pulling for you,” he tweeted. “We’re here for you. Get better and live a long, healthy life.”

My thoughts are with my mate @majakdaw today.

The entire country is pulling for you. We're here for you.

Get better and live a long, healthy life.

— Chad Ryan (@ChadwikoTWW) December 17, 2018

Documentary maker Wayne Schwass added: “Thoughts, prayers and best wishes go out to @majakdaw. Sending you unconditional support, love and respect during this difficult time brother.”

https://twitter.com/WayneSchwass/status/1074809027601752065

Daw and his family are refugees from Sudan and he became the first Sudanese Australian to be drafted to an AFL club in 2009. He made his senior debut for the Kangaroos in 2013 and has played more than 50 games.

If you’re depressed or need someone to talk to, there are many 24/7 support lines available, including Lifeline on 13 11 14, the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467, MensLineAustralia on 1300 789 978 and Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.

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