Former Australian cricket star Damien Martyn has revealed he was given only a 50% chance of survival after contracting a severe case of meningitis that required an eight-day induced coma in late December 2025. The 54-year-old Test veteran shared his harrowing health ordeal through a public statement accompanied by a beachside recovery photo.
Martyn described how his life was suddenly ‘taken out of my hands’ on December 27th when meningitis aggressively attacked his brain. Medical professionals at Gold Coast University Hospital made the critical decision to place him in a paralyzed coma to combat what he termed ‘this awful disease.’ Against statistical predictions, Martyn emerged from the coma after eight days, initially unable to walk or speak.
In what he characterizes as a remarkable recovery, the cricketer-turned-survivor regained both mobility and speech within just four days of waking, astonishing his medical team. His discharge from hospital marked the beginning of an ongoing rehabilitation journey that now includes symbolic moments of gratitude, such as walking on the beach near his home.
Meningitis, the infection responsible for Martyn’s critical condition, attacks the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The disease can prove fatal within hours if not treated promptly, making Martyn’s recovery particularly notable.
The cricket legend expressed profound appreciation for the emergency responders from Mermaid Waters Ambulance, hospital staff, and countless supporters who reached out during his ordeal. ‘This experience has reminded me of how fragile life is,’ Martyn reflected, emphasizing the preciousness of time and the generosity of strangers.
Martyn’s distinguished cricket career included 67 Test matches between 1992-2006, during which he accumulated 4,406 runs including 13 centuries. His international achievements encompassed two ODI World Cup victories, notably his courageous 88 not out in the 2003 final played with a broken finger against India.