West Ham forward Michail Antonio has undergone surgery for a lower-limb fracture following a serious car accident in Essex on Saturday afternoon, the club has confirmed.
The 33-year-old striker was airlifted to a London hospital after his Ferrari was involved in a single-vehicle collision on High Road, Epping. Images shared on social media showed the severely damaged car, highlighting the intensity of the crash.
Club Statement
In a statement released on Sunday, West Ham United said:
West Ham United can confirm Michail Antonio has undergone surgery on a lower limb fracture following a road traffic accident on Saturday afternoon (7 December 2024). Michail will continue to be monitored in hospital over the coming days.
Everyone at the club wishes Michail a speedy recovery and wishes to express its sincere gratitude to the football family at large for the overwhelming support shown since yesterday’s news, as well as extending a heartfelt thank you to the emergency services and first responders who attended to Michail in the immediate aftermath of the incident, and the medical team who continue to aid him in his recovery.
“The club will provide further updates when appropriate.”
Emergency Services Respond
Essex Fire Service provided further details of the rescue efforts, stating:
“Crews were called to High Road, Epping, at 1:02 p.m. on Saturday following reports of a road traffic collision involving one car. Upon arrival, firefighters found a man trapped in his vehicle and worked to release him by 1:45 p.m. The casualty was then left in the care of the Ambulance Service.”
Antonio’s ex-wife reportedly joined him at his hospital bedside as he begins his recovery.
A Star Player and Fan Favorite
Antonio, a key figure for West Ham since joining in 2015, has become a club legend, helping the Hammers secure their first trophy in 43 years with the Europa Conference League victory in 2023. Initially signed as a winger, Antonio evolved into a powerful centre-forward and remains a fan favorite.
The crash has left questions about his potential return to first-team action, but the club has not yet provided a timeframe.
Previous Incident
This is not Antonio’s first car-related accident. In 2019, he made headlines after crashing his Lamborghini Huracan into a shed in Balham while dressed as a snowman on Christmas Day.
Ongoing Investigation
Essex Police and the Roads Policing Unit are investigating the circumstances of the crash. Anyone with information or dashcam footage is urged to contact Essex Police via their website or by calling 101, quoting incident 605 of 7 December.
The football community and West Ham fans have flooded social media with well-wishes, hoping for Antonio’s speedy recovery. Further updates on his condition are expected in the coming days.
