Over the weekend, Shaquille O’Neal‘s hip surgery was reported. The Basketball legend shared a hospital photo of himself on Sunday, but sources now confirm all is well.
When celebrities undergo surgeries, fans are often curious to know what is next. They put on their sleuthing hats, wondering when their favorite star will be back to business.
In 2002, Shaquille O’Neal proved that he was more than the pain. The then-Lakers player had been indecisive about his toe injury. But when he decided to go through with it, it was a success.
The doctors worked on his big toe and gave him about six to eight weeks to recover. Shortly after the surgery, Shaquille came out smiling. Eventually, he healed and was back to the game, where he racked up more victories for his team.
More than twenty years later fans hear another unsettling news about Shaquille O’Neal’s hip surgery. The 7’1 gain shared a snap of himself in the hospital.
Shaquille O'Neal sparked concern after sharing a photo of him in a hospital bed Sunday, but TMZ Sports has learned he underwent planned hip surgery … and is now on the mend. https://t.co/AXzl4W1a9o
— TMZ (@TMZ) March 20, 2023
Shaquille O’Neal’s Hip Surgery Was Successful
Retired basketball player and sports analyst shocked his 29.6 million followers with a Sunday post. He was wrapped in white sheets while closing his eyes. One of his hands clutched his phone— the same hand with an IV line.
Next to a relaxed patient was an extended wire connected to a machine, not in sight. After sharing the photo, he tagged his “NBA on TNT” co-stars.
The sports analyst told them he was watching them on screen, amid his absence. Candace Parker, his colleague replied with a “Love you big Fella” message.
It was soon confirmed that the photo was showing the aftermath of Shaquille O’Neal’s hip surgery. TMZ reported that the 51-year-old is recuperating at light speed.
The surgery was to address a problematic hip injury. At the moment, it has been corrected. Fortunately, there were no complications during or after the surgery.
For now, fans will have to hope he gets better soon enough to return to TV. However, they had been promised via his podcast that he would return on April 16.
When he is not dissecting serious sports matters, Shaquille is letting his online fans have the best laughter. Just three days ago, while celebrating his longtime pal, Jamie, he shared some hilarious snaps.
The 51-year-old visibly poked fun at their height difference. In the first snap, the celebrant hid behind Shaquille’s black coat. Another snap showed Jamie standing on a platform to reach his friend’s height. Fans also caught a glimpse of the friends partying alongside David Beckham. As expected, Shaquille’s gigantic frame towered over his company.