Hawthorn Hawks forward Jack Ginnivan has found himself at the centre of a brewing storm after a seemingly innocuous fashion choice provoked fury among Adelaide Crows supporters.
The 21-year-old player, who made a high-profile move from Collingwood during the trade period, was photographed wearing distinct Port Power socks while in the South Australian capital, a move perceived as a direct slight against the local Crows faithful.
Social Media Erupts Over 'Disrespectful' Act
Adelaide fans swiftly took to social media to express their outrage, labelling Ginnivan's actions as deliberately inflammatory and lacking in respect. The image, which quickly went viral, shows the player in casual attire, with the black, white, and teal hoops of the Port Adelaide socks clearly visible.
Many commentators questioned the player's judgement, suggesting the act was a needless provocation ahead of his team's important match-up at Adelaide Oval. The incident has added a significant layer of spice to the upcoming contest, with local fans now likely to give the Hawks star a particularly heated reception.
Ginnivan's History of Headlines
This is not the first time the young forward has found himself in the spotlight for reasons beyond his on-field performance. Ginnivan has previously been involved in controversies surrounding staging for free kicks and was suspended in 2022 for illicit drug use.
His move to Hawthorn was seen by many as a fresh start, but this latest incident demonstrates his uncanny ability to remain a talking point. The question now being asked is whether this was a simple oversight or a calculated move by a player known for his confident—some would say cocky—public persona.
Club Response and Fallout
While neither Hawthorn nor the Adelaide Crows have issued an official statement, the court of public opinion has been in full session. The incident raises questions about player professionalism and the understanding of local rivalries when travelling for interstate games.
As the Hawks prepare to face the Crows, all eyes will be on Ginnivan to see how he responds to the inevitable crowd reaction. His performance under pressure, both from the opposition and the incensed home crowd, could define the match's outcome.
