Fans express concern after shocking photo shows NRL legend’s eye condition
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Rugby league fans across Australia have been left both shocked and concerned after the NRL legend shared a confronting photo of his left eye following surgery, sending social media into a panic and prompting an outpouring of support for the much-loved footy figure.
Affectionately known as 'Gus' to generations of league followers, took to social media to reveal the aftermath of his scheduled eye operation.
The image, which he jokingly referred to as his 'new eye', quickly went viral, racking up more than 50,000 views and sparking a wave of comments from worried fans and well-wishers alike.
The 67-year-old Bulldogs football boss and Channel 9 commentator announced earlier in the week that he would be stepping back from his usual duties for a short period to recover from the procedure.
'Undergoing eye surgery tomorrow,' Phil Gould posted.
'Taking the rest of the week off. There will be a special replacement for the Six Tackles with Gus podcast on Wednesday. Hopefully I’m back on deck for 100 per cent Footy next Monday Night. Enjoy the weekend round of football ahead, everyone.'
Despite the daunting nature of the surgery, Gould’s trademark sense of humour shone through.
On Tuesday, he updated fans with a post featuring laughing emojis and the caption:
'And there it is … A new eye.' The accompanying photo, however, was not for the faint-hearted, showing a bruised and swollen eye that left many followers wincing in sympathy.
A Year of Ups and Downs for Gus
This latest health scare comes at the end of a particularly eventful year for Gould, both on and off the field.
The rugby league stalwart has been at the centre of several controversies, including a high-profile tug-of-war over young star Lachie Galvin and some pointed criticism of Queensland coach Billy Slater’s State of Origin selections.
Yet, through it all, Gould has remained a prominent and passionate voice in the game, never shying away from sharing his opinions, no matter how divisive.
On a personal note, Gould’s health has been a topic of discussion in recent years.
After leaving his role as football boss at the Warriors in 2021, he embarked on a health journey that saw him shed more than 10kg in 2022.
Friends and fans have noted that he appears to be in good spirits and better health, despite the recent eye surgery.
What’s Next for Phil Gould?
While Gould is taking a well-deserved break to recover, he’s made it clear that he hopes to be back in action soon—possibly in time for the State of Origin series decider on 9 July.
For many league fans, especially those with strong State allegiances, seeing Gus back in front of the goal posts is as much a part of Origin tradition as the game itself.
His absence, even if brief, will be felt across the rugby league community.
Gould’s insights, wit, and larger-than-life personality have made him a fixture on our screens and airwaves for decades.
Whether you agree with his takes or not, there’s no denying the impact he’s had on the sport.
Eye Health: A Reminder for Us All
Gould’s experience is also a timely reminder for all of us—especially those in the over-60s club—about the importance of regular eye checks and not ignoring changes in our vision.
Eye health can often be overlooked, but as we age, the risk of conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration increases.
If you notice any changes in your eyesight, don’t put off seeing your GP or optometrist. Early intervention can make all the difference.
Wishing Phil Gould a speedy recovery and hoping to see him back on our screens, sharing his unique brand of footy wisdom, very soon.
Have you ever had a health scare that made you take a step back and re-evaluate things? Or perhaps you’ve had your own experience with eye surgery or vision changes? We’d love to hear your stories, tips, and words of encouragement for Phil Gould and others in our community. Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Read more: 'His time is limited': Aussie footy legend faces heartbreaking diagnosis
Affectionately known as 'Gus' to generations of league followers, took to social media to reveal the aftermath of his scheduled eye operation.
The image, which he jokingly referred to as his 'new eye', quickly went viral, racking up more than 50,000 views and sparking a wave of comments from worried fans and well-wishers alike.
The 67-year-old Bulldogs football boss and Channel 9 commentator announced earlier in the week that he would be stepping back from his usual duties for a short period to recover from the procedure.
'Undergoing eye surgery tomorrow,' Phil Gould posted.
'Taking the rest of the week off. There will be a special replacement for the Six Tackles with Gus podcast on Wednesday. Hopefully I’m back on deck for 100 per cent Footy next Monday Night. Enjoy the weekend round of football ahead, everyone.'
Phil Gould was sidelined from Channel 9 and NRL duties after scheduled surgery on his left eye. Credit: @philgould15 / X
Despite the daunting nature of the surgery, Gould’s trademark sense of humour shone through.
On Tuesday, he updated fans with a post featuring laughing emojis and the caption:
'And there it is … A new eye.' The accompanying photo, however, was not for the faint-hearted, showing a bruised and swollen eye that left many followers wincing in sympathy.
A Year of Ups and Downs for Gus
This latest health scare comes at the end of a particularly eventful year for Gould, both on and off the field.
The rugby league stalwart has been at the centre of several controversies, including a high-profile tug-of-war over young star Lachie Galvin and some pointed criticism of Queensland coach Billy Slater’s State of Origin selections.
Yet, through it all, Gould has remained a prominent and passionate voice in the game, never shying away from sharing his opinions, no matter how divisive.
On a personal note, Gould’s health has been a topic of discussion in recent years.
After leaving his role as football boss at the Warriors in 2021, he embarked on a health journey that saw him shed more than 10kg in 2022.
Friends and fans have noted that he appears to be in good spirits and better health, despite the recent eye surgery.
What’s Next for Phil Gould?
While Gould is taking a well-deserved break to recover, he’s made it clear that he hopes to be back in action soon—possibly in time for the State of Origin series decider on 9 July.
For many league fans, especially those with strong State allegiances, seeing Gus back in front of the goal posts is as much a part of Origin tradition as the game itself.
His absence, even if brief, will be felt across the rugby league community.
Gould’s insights, wit, and larger-than-life personality have made him a fixture on our screens and airwaves for decades.
Whether you agree with his takes or not, there’s no denying the impact he’s had on the sport.
Eye Health: A Reminder for Us All
Gould’s experience is also a timely reminder for all of us—especially those in the over-60s club—about the importance of regular eye checks and not ignoring changes in our vision.
Eye health can often be overlooked, but as we age, the risk of conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration increases.
If you notice any changes in your eyesight, don’t put off seeing your GP or optometrist. Early intervention can make all the difference.
Wishing Phil Gould a speedy recovery and hoping to see him back on our screens, sharing his unique brand of footy wisdom, very soon.
Read more: 'His time is limited': Aussie footy legend faces heartbreaking diagnosis
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