NFL star Damar Hamlin is in a critical condition in hospital after suffering a cardiac arrest on the field during the Buffalo Bills’ match against the Cincinnatti Bengals.
The Bills confirmed via their official Twitter feed that Hamlin, 24, had to have his heartbeat restored on the field before being transferred to UC Medical Center for further testing and treatment.
Hamlin fell to the ground after taking a hit from an opponent during the first quarter of the Bills’ match against the Bengals. He received medical attention on the pitch for around 30 minutes before being taken to the hospital.
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The game was subsequently suspended by the NFL.
Hamlin was tackled by Bengal’s star Tee Higgins. Higgins’ helmet appeared to hit Hamlin in the chest during the tackle. After initially getting to his feet, Hamlin then fell on his back.
(Image: Kamil Krzaczynski/AP/REX/Shutterstock)
Players from both teams gathered around the stricken star as medical staff gave emergency treatment to him. Several players were seen visibly distressed, with some turning to prayer during the ordeal.
TV coverage repeatedly chose to broke away from the scenes on the field as the severity of Hamlin’s injury became clear.
(Image: Getty Images)
(Image: Joshua A Bickel/AP/REX/Shutterstock)
Jordon Rooney, Hamlin’s representative, later wrote on Twitter: “His vitals are back to normal and they have put him to sleep to put a breathing tube down his throat. They are currently running tests. We will provide updates as we have them.”
The league’s players association added: “We have been in touch with Bills and Bengals players, and with the NFL. The only thing that matters at this moment is Damar’s health and well being.”
NFL fans and players alike took to social media to send wishes and thoughts to Hamin and his family. Basketball star LeBron James said: “It was a terrible thing to see and I wish nothing but the best for that kid. I am a huge fan of the NFL and football and you never want to see anything like that happen. The safety of players in all sports is always the most important.”
(Image: Getty Images)
(Image: Joshua A Bickel/AP/REX/Shutterstock)
While Arizona Cardinals defensive end JJ Watt added: “Please be ok man. Please be ok.”
Hamlin was drafted by the Bills last year after standing out for the University of Pittsburgh. Playing as a safety, he had to wait for his chance last season after spending much of it as a reserve but has he has been an important part of the Bills’ first-team roster this term.
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