Brisbane Lions veteran Lincoln McCarthy is setting an ambitious goal to return to the football field by August 2025, drawing inspiration from Sam Docherty’s swift comeback after a similar injury. McCarthy, who is scheduled for surgery on Tuesday following his second ACL tear just ten days prior, is targeting a remarkable recovery timeline of less than six months.
The 31-year-old’s risky plan seeks to capitalise on Docherty’s success, who managed to return to play in just 183 days after his own ACL surgery. If McCarthy achieves a comparable recovery, he could be fit for the AFL finals by mid-September.
The club is supportive of McCarthy’s determination, even though this approach diverges significantly from the typical 12-month recovery period. Last week, the Lions’ medical team presented McCarthy with various options: a conventional knee reconstruction that would rule him out for the season; LARS surgery with its own risks; or opting for natural healing without surgery. This last option is similar to the path taken by Brisbane assistant coach Dale Morris, who chose a less invasive route but faced setbacks.
Ultimately, McCarthy has decided to pursue surgery followed by an intensive rehabilitation process, mirroring Docherty’s approach. The procedure will involve a graft from McCarthy’s patella tendon, differing from the more common hamstring graft used in 90% of ACL reconstructions in Australia.
While the club’s statement has kept the possibility open for MacCarthy’s return this season, caution is advised given the inherent risks associated with a rapid recovery. Dr Peter Larkins, speaking on 9News Melbourne, highlighted that players returning within the 10 to 12-month mark are taking considerable risks.
Despite the challenges, both McCarthy and the Lions consider the potential rewards worthwhile, particularly as the team aims for success in the premiership. As they navigate this complex recovery, McCarthy’s resolve and the club’s backing will be crucial in determining the outcome of his ambitious path back to the game.