Michail Antonio Grateful to Be Alive After Car Accident
West Ham United striker Michail Antonio has expressed his gratitude for life after surviving a serious car accident that left him with a broken leg.
The 34-year-old Jamaica international, who underwent surgery for a lower limb fracture, was discharged from the hospital on Tuesday, over three weeks after the crash.
The incident occurred on December 7 in Epping, Essex, where Antonio became trapped in his car and had to be rescued by emergency services before being transported to a central London hospital.
Sharing his emotional journey on Instagram, Antonio wrote: “Every year around this time, I’m asked what I’m grateful for, and every year I’ve struggled to find the right words. But this year, I know exactly what I’m grateful for: being alive.”
The post featured a photo of Antonio standing on crutches, highlighting his road to recovery. Reflecting on the experience, he admitted to having taken life for granted in the past and emphasized the newfound appreciation for its fragility.
Antonio, who is West Ham’s all-time leading Premier League scorer with 68 goals in 268 appearances, expressed his determination to return to the pitch soon.
“I’m so grateful to God for giving me the strength to keep going and for allowing me to still be here,” he added.
He also took the opportunity to thank the emergency and medical teams, as well as the football community, for their unwavering support.
West Ham United showed solidarity by auctioning ‘Antonio 9’ shirts worn during their match against Wolves on December 9, raising nearly £60,000 for NHS and Air Ambulances UK charities.
The club extended their gratitude to the first responders and pledged ongoing support for their star forward.