Former Richmond and Collingwood footballer Andrew Krakouer has died at the age of 42 after a suspected heart attack.
Krakouer reportedly suffered the heart attack while gardening in Perth on Sunday.
Krakouer played 137 games across 10 seasons at AFL level, playing at the Tigers between 2001 and 2007, and the Magpies between 2011 and 2013.
In between AFL clubs, Krakouer featured for WAFL club Swan Districts, winning the Sandover Medal in the Swan Districts' 2010 grand final victory.
In 2011, Krakouer was a starring player in Collingwood's grand final defeat, kicking three goals and laying four tackles. His career tally capped at 152 goals before being delisted at the end of 2013.
AFL CEO Andrew Dillon spoke highly of Krakouer for his contribution to the league as the AFL sent their condolences to his family and friends.
โWe send our sincere condolences to Andrew's family and many friends across football,โ Dillon said.
โTo lose him at such an early age is a tragedy, and we hope there can be some peace for his family in this heart-breaking and difficult time.
โTo all his past teammates at Richmond, Collingwood, the team at AFL media and all Indigenous players and staff across the industry, our thoughts are with you all.โ
Former teammates and clubmen wrote on social media to pay their respects to the 2011 Mark of the Year winner.
โRest in peace Andrew Krakouer,โ Richmond teammate Matthew Richardson posted on X.
โA beautiful man who was loved by all his teammates. Always greeted you with a hug and a smile.
โLove to Jimmy and Andrew's daughters and all his family. Very sad day.โ
Former Richmond CEO Brendan Gale also paid tribute to Krakouer on X.
"So saddened by the tragic and unexpected passing of Andrew Krakouer," Gale wrote.
"Krak was a special talent - but more than that, he was a deeply loved husband, father, son, teammate and friend. My condolences are with the Krakouer family and all who loved him.
"Rest easy Krak."
Krakouer's passing follows the deaths of two much-loved figures in the AFL industry earlier this year, with former Brisbane Lions player Troy Selwood, Essendon assistant coach Dale Tapping and West Coats premiership player Adam Hunter passing away in February.
