St Kilda has confirmed that injury-troubled key forward Max King is ruled out of the 2025 season.
King has run into problematic knee issues that have plagued his year thus far, and was nearing a return to football before the latest setback.
The 24-year-old "felt a clunking" in his knee, and following the results of scans, the Saints have made the call to start preparing for 2026.
"We understand there has been a lot of interest in Max's health over the last few months," EGM Football David Misson said.
"Max's case has not been simple nor linear, and we've attempted to adequately keep our members and fans up to date while maintaining Max's privacy. We have also been dealing with a medical situation that has often confounded the many medical experts we have consulted.
"About 10 days ago, as Max was closing in on a return to football, he felt a clunking in his knee - the same knee that has been causing him trouble throughout this season.
"This was as surprising as it was frustrating, as all indications were that Max's most recent arthroscope had addressed this issue.
"Following further consultations and imaging last week and over the weekend, we feel the cause of Max's issue has been pinpointed and that damage to the medial aspect of his knee, in certain situations, was impeding his movement and causing pain. The operation aimed to address and repair this issue. It will see Max off-legs for several months, however, will allow him to be ready for the commencement of pre-season.
"Max's grit and resilience has remained incredibly strong and steadfast throughout this challenging time, and he heads into this period of rehab with the whole club behind him."
King failed to venture onto a football field in 2025, and will be the third successive season hindered by injury.
