Star Blues defender ruled out for 2025 season with ruptured patella tendon

Carlton defender Nic Newman has been ruled out for the 2025 season after he ruptured his patella tendon at training on Friday.

Channel Nine’s Chief Football reporter Tom Morris broke the news on Friday afternoon that the 32-year-old left the track early and would be scheduled for scans on his knee on Monday.

However, the 2024 best and fairest runner-up has been notified of the severity of the injury, with Carlton releasing a statement confirming the worst case scenario for the Victorian.

“We are all very disappointed for Nic and our focus is on his recovery,” Carlton General Manager of Football Brad Lloyd said.

“He will soon undergo surgery to repair his patella, and from there he will enter into a rehabilitation program. Nic is the ultimate professional with an outstanding work ethic, he understands the process and will be well supported as he attacks his rehab.

“Nic is a leader and highly regarded at this Club, he’s someone who looks after his teammates on and off the field. The whole Club will wrap its arms around Nic as we support him on his road to recovery.”

Newman’s injury adds more woes to the Blues this off season, as they’re already dealing with the likes of Sam Walsh’s hamstring strain and Charlie Curnow’s delayed recovery from knee surgery.

Newman will have surgery on his left knee in the coming week before starting his rehabilitation with the club.

Carlton’s opening game of the season is against Richmond on March 13.