West Ham United striker Michail Antonio has been discharged from the hospital after more than three weeks of recovery following a serious car accident on December 7.
The 34-year-old, who is West Ham’s all-time leading scorer in the Premier League with 68 goals in 268 appearances, sustained a broken leg in the crash, requiring surgery to treat a lower limb fracture. Antonio was trapped in his vehicle after the accident, which occurred in Epping, Essex, and had to be freed by emergency responders before being rushed to a central London hospital.
Antonio’s recovery has been nothing short of remarkable, with West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui calling it a “miracle” that the Jamaican international is now stable. Despite his injury, Antonio remained connected with his teammates via a video call, offering support before West Ham’s vital 2-1 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers on December 9. The players honored Antonio by wearing “Antonio 9” shirts before kick-off.
In a show of appreciation for the emergency services and medical staff who supported Antonio, West Ham United announced they would donate nearly £60,000 to the NHS and Air Ambulances UK charities, the proceeds coming from the auction of the commemorative shirts.
“Everyone at the club would like to reiterate their heartfelt thanks to the first responders, emergency services, air ambulance staff, and the NHS for the incredible support given to Michail in the wake of the accident,” a West Ham statement read.
The club has been buoyed by the outpouring of support from fans and fellow players alike, and Antonio’s recovery continues to inspire hope as he begins the next chapter of his healing process.
