GWS icon Callan Ward has taken to social media to express his gratitude for the support and well wishes from the football community following his surgery on his knee.

Ward suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear in Round 12 against Richmond in the early stages of the contest, with fears that his career would be over.

Neither the club nor the 35-year-old has officially ruled out a return to play in 2026, although it was understood that the former Bulldog would see out this season as his last.

"Surgery done โœ…," Ward said.

"Feeling a huge sense of gratitude to my wife and my boyd, my family and friends, GWS players, coaches, all staff, supporters and members, the AFL and general sports media/journalists/commentators, the AFL community as well as players and staff from other AFL clubs who have reached out since my injury โค๏ธ.

"I have never felt so much love and support in my life, so thank you to everybody.

"Now to get back to the club to help where I can in giving ourselves the best chance for success ๐Ÿ†.

"And to spend more time with Ruby and our boys. Life's good ๐Ÿ™."