Tony Hawk speaks out on his skateboarding future following his serious leg injury at 53

vt-author-image

By Carina Murphy

Article saved!Article saved!

Tony Hawk has opened up about a serious injury that could threaten his future skateboarding career.

The legendary pro skateboarder shared an update on his condition to his Instagram, including a picture of an X-ray and a video of himself walking on crutches.

"Yesterday sucked," wrote Hawk, who turned 53 last year, before revealing that he had broken a bone in his leg. "I broke my elbow 20 years ago and managed to make a full comeback; this recovery for a broken femur will be much harder because of its severity (and my age)."

Despite the serious injury, Hawk remained positive, saying: "But I'm up for the challenge."

He went on to say how ironic it was that he had hurt himself just before a new documentary about his life and career landed on HBO.

"There is a strange irony that this happened on the eve of HBO releasing a trailer for 'Until The Wheels Fall Off,' Sam Jones' documentary about my life & career, which has a strong focus on the philosophy of how I/we do this at our age. The answer is complicated, but ultimately it's because I have found my sense of purpose and shaped my identity through skating, and it nourishes my mental health like nothing else," Hawk wrote.

He also touched on a promise he's made many times before never to stop skating until he absolutely has to, writing: "I’ve said many times that I won’t stop skating until I am physically unable." However, he did allow that "a broken leg - with plenty of hardware - will probably be the biggest test of that creed."

wp-image-1263147523 size-full
Credit: ZUMA Press / Alamy

But the Birdman remained upbeat about the challenges ahead, adding: "I'll be back," before rounding off his post with a shout-out to his fans and family.

"Thanks to my unyieldingly supportive, tolerant family — and all of you — for the love and support through the years; I wouldn't be here without you. See you on the other side," he finished.

Hawk is no stranger to injuries. People report that in the past he has suffered broken ribs, concussions, back injuries, and even knocked out teeth.

Featured Image Credit: ZUMA Press / Alamy