AFL legend Jonathan Brown has undergone surgery to remove a brain tumour.
The 44-year-old took to Instagram on Friday evening to announce the diagnosis, sharing the news with a photo of he and wife Kylie in hospital.
The three-time Brisbane Lions premiership player said the tumour was found after “undergoing a routine scan”.
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“I was recently made aware of a shadow on my brain that turned out to be a low-grade brain tumour,” he said.
“I underwent surgery Wednesday with a positive outcome. I understand a surgery of this nature creates interest and once I have recuperated, I will share my experience.
Jonathan Brown took to social media to announce he’d had surgery on a brain tumour. Instagram
“But for now I need to take some time to rest and recover.”
Since retiring from football in 2014, Brown has been a prominent commentator with the Seven Network.
On Friday night ahead of the Crows’ clash with the Bulldogs, several of Brown’s colleagues sent well-wishes.
“To Jono, his beautiful wife Kylie, their kids and (father) Brian, who will be watching at home, and the brothers, we wish them well from everyone here,” James Brayshaw said.
Jonathan Brown and Alastair Lynch celebrating the Lions three-peat. Getty
Long-time colleague Garry Lyon with tongue-in-cheek said Brown would be “making a nuisance of himself” to Kylie.
“We’re throwing our thoughts out to one of our great mates, Jonathan Brown … he’s at home watching this making a nuisance of himself with the beautiful Kylie,” Lyon said.
“But he’s had a pretty challenging week or so.
“I spoke to him about two hours ago, he was in the car and full of beans, bouncing around, talking to Kylie and annoying her.
Brown presented the premiership cup to Harris Andrews, coach Chris Fagan and then-skipper Lachie Neale. AFL Photos via Getty Images
“On behalf of all of us and the broader footy community, there’s been few more popular players than Jonathan Brown and few tougher.
“We send you our love, big fella. Take it easy, rest up, recuperate.
“We look forward to seeing your big ugly mug in the not too distant future.”
Brown played 256 games for the Lions between 2000 and 2014, and presented the Lions the premiership cup after they won last year’s grand final against the Cats.