The 34-year-old’s Ferrari collided with a tree in Epping, Essex, during wet and windy conditions, resulting in a shattered leg that required immediate surgery. Reflecting on the incident, Antonio expressed profound gratitude for surviving, acknowledging that he came “close to dying” and emphasizing how the experience has deepened his appreciation for life and family.
Despite the severity of his injuries, Antonio remains optimistic about his football career. He has already begun light jogging and is ahead of his rehabilitation schedule, which is projected to take six to twelve months. Demonstrating unwavering determination, Antonio stated, “This is not going to stop me,” and is committed to returning to the pitch, working diligently six days a week to regain his fitness.
The accident has also led Antonio to reassess certain aspects of his lifestyle. Having been involved in a previous car incident in 2019, he has now decided to avoid driving sports cars, opting for safer vehicle choices. He has been undergoing therapy to aid both his physical and emotional recovery.
Throughout his recovery, Antonio has received substantial support from West Ham United. The club covered his wages during his rehabilitation and raised nearly £60,000 for charity through auctions supporting the NHS and Air Ambulances UK. The team has also expressed intentions to discuss a contract extension with him, reflecting their continued support and belief in his abilities.
As West Ham’s all-time leading Premier League goal scorer, with 68 goals in 268 league appearances, Antonio’s resilience and positive outlook have been inspiring. While he is expected to miss the remainder of the season, his determination and the backing of his club and fans fuel his ambition to make a successful return to football.
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