St Kilda Saints make call on Max King's season after latest injury setback
St Kilda forward Max King has been ruled out for the remainder of the 2026 AFL season following a hamstring strain during his return match. The club has decided to prioritize his long-term recovery and pre-season preparation over a potential late-season return.
Why it matters
The loss of a key player significantly impacts St Kilda's competitive prospects as they fight for a position in the final series.
Max King won't play again in 2026 after straining his hamstring in his return game
--> Max King runs onto the field during the match between North Melbourne and St Kilda at Marvel Stadium in round 20, 2026. Picture: Getty Images MAX KING has been ruled out for the rest of 2026 after straining his hamstring in Sunday's win over North Melbourne at Marvel Stadium.
The 26-year-old exited his first game in 757 days before three quarter-time with hamstring tightness.
A scan on Monday revealed another strain after the key forward suffered the same injury in his second game back at VFL level on May 2.
--> Learn More 00:52 1 day Disaster for Saints as King's comeback ends early Max King's long-awaited return comes to a premature end after he reports hamstring tightness and is ruled out in the third quarter
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