Max King, the 26-year-old spearhead for St Kilda, has been ruled out for the rest of the 2026 AFL season following a hamstring injury sustained in his first game in 757 days. King left the field during the third quarter of St Kilda's 13.15 (93) to 8.14 (62) win over North Melbourne due to hamstring tightness.

Scans confirmed a strain to King's left hamstring, prompting St Kilda to end his season prematurely. King has struggled with knee and soft-tissue injuries since 2024, and this latest setback comes despite extensive rehabilitation efforts.

"It's an incredibly disappointing outcome for Max, who has done everything possible throughout his rehabilitation to put himself in the best position to return," said Lenny Hayes, St Kilda's general manager of football. Hayes added that King is an "incredibly important part" of the club and that they will continue to support him through his recovery.

Saints coach Ross Lyon had previously defended the decision to play King in his first AFL game since June 30, 2024, acknowledging his ongoing battle with injuries.

Additionally, following scans and specialist consultation, Callaghan and the club's medical team have opted for surgery to repair the damage. Callaghan is expected to be sidelined for approximately 12 weeks.

Sources