Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.
AFL great Tony Modra is recovering after a near fatal accident involving a fallen tree branch, with former Adelaide captain Mark Ricciuto revealing the football icon is now "out of the worst" following multiple surgeries. Modra, 57, suffered serious facial injuries when a tree branch crashed through the windshield of a truck he was driving near his cattle property south of Adelaide last Thursday. The incident left the former Adelaide and Fremantle star in a critical condition and sparked widespread concern across the AFL community.
Ricciuto provided an update on Modra's condition during an appearance on Triple M radio, describing a challenging recovery process but expressing optimism about his long term outlook.
Ricciuto Provides Positive Health Update
Ricciuto, who captained Modra during their time at Adelaide and remains a close friend, said the former full forward has shown encouraging signs since the accident.
According to Ricciuto, Modra is still dealing with significant pain following several facial surgeries. However, he noted that his friend's condition has improved considerably since the initial aftermath of the incident.
"He’s improving a lot," Ricciuto told Triple M.
Ricciuto explained that Modra's injuries have affected his ability to move comfortably and have altered the way he sounds while speaking.
He said the AFL great appeared reluctant to move his head because of the discomfort associated with his injuries and ongoing recovery.
Despite those challenges, Ricciuto said Modra's trademark personality remains intact.
Sense of Humour Remains Strong
One of the most encouraging signs for family and friends has been Modra's ability to maintain his sense of humour during a difficult period.
Ricciuto revealed that even while enduring significant pain, Modra was still looking for opportunities to laugh and lighten the mood.
The former Adelaide captain said hearing that familiar humour provided reassurance that his friend was progressing positively.
Ricciuto acknowledged the severity of the surgeries Modra has undergone and said the recovery journey remains ongoing. However, he expressed hope that the most intensive medical procedures are now behind him.
Friends, former teammates and supporters have continued to rally around the former football star as he focuses on rehabilitation.
Freak Accident Shocks AFL Community
The accident occurred near Modra's cattle property south of Adelaide when a fallen tree branch penetrated the windshield of the truck he was driving.
Details of the incident quickly spread throughout the football world, prompting an emotional response from former teammates, clubs and fans.
Many supporters expressed concern after learning Modra had initially been listed in a critical condition following the crash.
The incident highlighted how rapidly serious injuries can occur in unexpected circumstances, even away from the sporting arena where Modra built his reputation.
Further updates regarding his recovery are expected through family representatives and official channels.
One of AFL's Greatest Entertainers
Modra remains one of the most beloved figures in Australian football history.
Renowned for his spectacular high marking ability and prolific goal kicking, he became one of the AFL's biggest stars during the 1990s.
Across a career spanning from 1992 to 2001, Modra played 165 AFL games for Adelaide and Fremantle. During that period, he kicked 588 goals and established himself as one of the competition's most exciting forwards.
His aerial brilliance regularly produced memorable highlights and helped elevate his popularity among supporters across the country.
Modra's achievements continue to be celebrated by both Adelaide and Fremantle fans, ensuring his place among the game's most iconic players.
Recovery Continues
While the immediate danger has passed, Ricciuto said Modra is still dealing with the physical and emotional consequences of the accident.
Recovering from serious trauma often involves not only healing from injuries but also processing memories and emotions associated with the event itself.
Ricciuto suggested that Modra is confronting those challenges while remaining positive about the future.
The pair even shared jokes about the tree involved in the accident, with Ricciuto revealing that Modra had spoken about wanting to cut it down.
The light hearted exchange reflected the resilience and humour that have long made Modra a popular figure among teammates and supporters.
As his recovery continues, the AFL community remains united in wishing him a full return to health.
Fans can follow additional AFL news and updates through our dedicated coverage section.
