'Not able to walk or talk...': Damien Martyn shares emotional message after coming out of induced coma

Former Australian batter Damien Martyn has returned home after spending several weeks in hospital recovering from a serious case of meningitis. The 54-year-old described the experience as frightening and said it made him realise how fragile life can be.

Martyn fell seriously ill on December 27, 2025, and was placed in an induced coma in the intensive care unit. He remained in that state for eight days as doctors worked to help him fight the illness. Encouraging signs of recovery appeared in early January, and he has now been discharged from the hospital.

Martyn shared emotional note

Sharing the update on social media, Martyn posted a photo of himself standing on a beach and expressed his joy at being back home. He penned down that he was grateful to be out of the hospital, enjoy simple moments again, and to begin thanking everyone who supported him and his family during the difficult time.

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Reflecting on the ordeal, Martyn said that the experience reminded him of how quickly life can change and the value of time. He recalled being given only a 50 per cent chance of survival and waking up from the coma unable to walk or speak. However, just four days later, he surprised doctors by regaining his ability to walk and talk, which led to his release from the hospital so he could continue his recovery at home.

The former World Cup winner also took time to thank those who stood by him throughout his illness. He expressed deep gratitude to paramedics, doctors, nurses, family members, friends, and even strangers who sent messages of care and encouragement. Martyn said the love and support he received over the past few weeks meant a great deal to him as he begins the next stage of his recovery.

Martyn's career

Martyn represented Australia in 67 Tests, 208 ODIs and four T20 internationals during his international career. His most memorable achievements came during the 2004 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in India, where he was named Player of the Series. He finished as the top scorer in four of Australia's eight innings, helping Australia secure its first away series win in India in several years.