Panic and confusion briefly swept through the AFL community today after a viral post falsely claimed that Geelong Cats legend Gary Ablett Jr. had died in a car crash at the age of 41.
The claim spread rapidly across social media, prompting an outpouring of shock messages from fans before being swiftly debunked. Representatives close to Ablett confirmed that the former Brownlow Medallist is alive and well, with no truth to the reported incident.
The Geelong Football Club moved quickly to calm supporters, with club sources describing the report as โcompletely untrue and deeply irresponsible.โ Fans were urged to rely only on verified club statements and reputable media outlets.
Ablett Jr., one of the most celebrated players in AFL history, retired from professional football in 2020 after an extraordinary career that included two Brownlow Medals, two premierships with Geelong, and a legacy of brilliance that continues to define the modern era of the game.
The incident has reignited discussion about the dangers of misinformation online, particularly when it involves public figures and emotionally charged claims. Supporters expressed relief as clarity emerged, though many also voiced frustration over how quickly false news can spread.
As of this writing, Gary Ablett Jr. has made no public comment, but those close to him say he is aware of the reports and appreciates the concern shown by fans.
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