Fremantle's prospects for the seventh season of the AFLW have taken a major hit less than a month out from Round 1, with veteran Kara Antonio requiring surgery on a hampered hamstring.
The Dockers confirmed on Saturday that Antonio will go under the knife after suffering the setback this week, with no timeframe on a return clear.
Fremantle will seek out further medical advice before identifying Antonio's chances of playing this season.
"Fremantle have confirmed Kara Antonio has undergone surgery after sustaining a hamstring injury to her right leg," a club statement reads.
"The experienced leader sustained the injury at training throughout the week.
"The Club will consult with the surgeon to determine Antonio’s playing outlook for Season 7 of the NAB AFLW Competition."
Antonio expressed her disappointment in the setback, but remained positive in beginning her recuperation.
"Sport can be cruel at time," Antonio wrote to Instagram. "But it’s the curveballs thrown at you like this one, that teaches you the important life lessons of resilience, gratitude, strength and mindset. Another little bump in the road that I will face head on, and come out the other side better for it.
"A big thank you to @drpeterdalessandro and his team for looking after me and going above and beyond to fix my broken hammy today.
"A massive thank you to my family, Freo family and everyone else who has reached out to check in, I’ve got the most amazing people around me that I will be forever grateful for.
"Let the rehab journey begin."
Antonio has played 46 games in purple since making her AFLW debut in 2017, a year she made the All-Australian side.
The Dockers will begin their upcoming AFLW campaign against the Brisbane Lions on Sunday, August 28 at the Gabba.