AFL Legend Ben Cousins ‘In Denial’ Before Admitting Himself to Hospital Following State of Origin Match

Brownlow Medallist Ben Cousins has disclosed that he rushed to hospital after the State of Origin match in Perth, where he underwent surgery for a hernia.

The West Coast legend admits to being “in denial” about the problem for several months, only to suddenly feel the most excruciating pain of his life.

Cousins faced numerous challenges following his football career, including charges related to domestic violence and struggles with drug and alcohol addiction.

However, he has achieved a sense of stability in recent years, engaging with the AFL media in Western Australia.

During a recent radio interview, the 46-year-old shared the news of his surgery when asked about his wellbeing.

“I’m doing alright… I’m a bit tender, to be honest,” Cousins told Triple M.

“I underwent a hernia operation on Friday. It’s certainly not enjoyable. I stayed overnight.”

“A small bubble or lump emerged where it ideally shouldn’t have a few months ago. I’ve been in denial about it, to be honest, as I didn’t seek an ultrasound.”

“I thought I’d hold on until the end of the footy season—just 12 more games, you’d think I was still playing.”

Cousins recounted the excruciating pain he endured, which left him on the brink of fainting.

“After attending the State of Origin on Wednesday night (in Perth) and enjoying a fantastic match, I returned home to put my daughter to bed. As I sat on her bed, out of the blue, this pain hit me,” he elaborated.

“Though I’ve experienced pain before, I’ve never felt anything like this. I was on the verge of passing out and couldn’t speak.”

“The next day, I did everything I could to see a doctor as soon as possible. So, I went into hospital the following day.”

The Eagles icon, who concluded his AFL journey at Richmond, expresses enjoyment in his current work within the game.

“I’m relishing following the sport. At this stage of the year, I’m fully invested,” Cousins mentioned.

“I often make an effort to watch games, especially the local teams. This year, being involved in some broadcasts, which I haven’t done a lot of, has truly enhanced my experience, allowing me to feel closer to the action.”

Cousins competed in 270 matches for the Eagles and Tigers from 1996 to 2010, clinching the 2005 Brownlow Medal, the 2006 AFL premiership with West Coast, and earning All-Australian accolades six times.