Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.
Tony Modra is recovering after a near fatal accident that left the AFL great with serious facial injuries, with close friend Mark Ricciuto revealing the former Adelaide and Fremantle star is now “out of the worst.” Modra was critically injured last Thursday when a fallen tree branch smashed through the windshield of a truck he was driving near his cattle property south of Adelaide. The incident shocked the football community and prompted an outpouring of support for one of the AFL’s most beloved figures.
Ricciuto provided an encouraging update on Wednesday, confirming that while Modra remains in significant pain, his condition has improved considerably since the accident.
Ricciuto Shares Positive Recovery Update
The former Adelaide captain, who played alongside Modra during the Crows' rise in the 1990s, spoke about his recent conversation with the AFL icon on Triple M radio.
Ricciuto said Modra is making steady progress but continues to deal with the effects of multiple facial surgeries.
According to Ricciuto, the injuries have significantly affected Modra's mobility and speech during the early stages of recovery.
"He’s improving a lot," Ricciuto said.
He explained that Modra sounded very different from his usual self due to the trauma and discomfort associated with his injuries.
The former Crows skipper noted that moving his head remains difficult and painful for the 57 year old.
Sense of Humour Remains Intact
Despite the seriousness of the accident and the lengthy recovery process ahead, Ricciuto said one important aspect of Modra's personality remains unchanged.
The football legend continues to display the sense of humour that made him such a popular figure throughout his playing career.
Ricciuto said Modra was still looking for opportunities to joke and laugh despite the physical challenges he currently faces.
The update offered reassurance to supporters who have followed developments closely since news of the accident emerged.
Maintaining a positive attitude has been an encouraging sign for family, friends and the wider football community.
Multiple Surgeries Following Freak Accident
Modra sustained severe facial injuries when a tree branch crashed through the front windshield of his vehicle.
The freak accident occurred near his rural property south of Adelaide and initially left him in a critical condition.
Medical teams performed several operations in the days following the incident as part of efforts to stabilise his condition and begin the recovery process.
Ricciuto acknowledged the significant pain Modra continues to endure following those procedures.
However, he expressed hope that the former AFL star may have completed the most intensive phase of his treatment.
Further updates on his recovery are expected as rehabilitation progresses.
AFL Community Rallies Around Modra
News of the accident triggered widespread concern across the AFL landscape.
Former teammates, clubs, supporters and media figures all expressed support for Modra following reports of the incident.
The response reflected Modra's standing as one of the game's most admired and entertaining players.
Throughout his career, he built a reputation not only for his spectacular football ability but also for his approachable personality and popularity among fans.
Many supporters have continued sending well wishes as he works through the next stages of recovery.
One of the AFL's Most Exciting Forwards
Modra remains one of the most recognisable players of the modern AFL era.
Playing for Adelaide and Fremantle between 1992 and 2001, he established himself as one of the competition's premier key forwards.
Across 165 AFL matches, Modra kicked 588 goals and produced countless memorable moments through his high marking and goal kicking exploits.
His spectacular aerial ability helped define an era of football and made him a fan favourite throughout the country.
Even decades after retirement, Modra continues to hold a special place in AFL history and among supporters of both clubs he represented.
Looking Ahead
While the immediate danger has passed, Modra still faces a challenging recovery journey.
Ricciuto noted that alongside the physical pain, his friend is also processing the emotional impact of such a traumatic event.
The pair were still able to share a laugh, with Ricciuto revealing that Modra joked about wanting to cut down the tree involved in the accident.
The light hearted moment reflected the resilience that has helped define Modra throughout his life and football career.
For now, supporters will be encouraged by reports that he is improving and remains in good spirits despite the difficult circumstances.
More AFL news and updates can be found in our football coverage section.