Former Newcastle Knights forward Alex McKinnon has spoken candidly about the emotional pain of being snubbed by his former NRL club on the anniversary of the devastating injury that ended his rugby league career.
The 31-year-old, who was left paralysed after a horrific tackle during a 2014 match against Melbourne Storm, revealed his disappointment at not receiving any acknowledgement from the Knights on the poignant date.
A Painful Anniversary Ignored
"It was a tough day," McKinnon admitted. "Ten years on from the incident that changed my life forever, and not a word from the club I gave so much to."
The former rising star, once considered one of rugby league's most promising talents, described how the oversight brought back stark memories of the career-ending moment when three Melbourne players combined in a tackle that fractured his C4 and C5 vertebrae.
Life After Rugby
Since the accident, McKinnon has shown remarkable resilience, learning to walk again after doctors initially told him he would never move below his shoulders. He's become an inspirational speaker and advocate for spinal injury research.
"Some days are harder than others," he shared. "Anniversaries like this make you reflect on what might have been. But I'm grateful for the support I've had from so many in the rugby community."
Mixed Reactions from NRL Community
The revelation has sparked debate among NRL fans and commentators, with many expressing disappointment at the club's apparent oversight. Others have pointed to McKinnon's ongoing involvement with rival clubs' charity initiatives as a potential factor.
Newcastle Knights officials declined to comment when approached about McKinnon's claims, leaving questions unanswered about why they chose not to acknowledge the significant date.
