The dangers of rodeo events have been the factors to set the field apart from the rest. A minor fall to something life-threatening, the riders are known to brave through it all. For 3X World Championship Bareback Rider, Tim O’Connell, the situation has been especially true. Working around injuries for about a year, O’Connell has stood to receive the respect and admiration of the spectators.

Tim O’Connell has been a known presence in rodeo for well over a decade. Multiple world titles and NFR qualifications later, the 32-year-old continues to tread the path well, placing 9th in the World Standings. But his recent revelation on groin injury proved the path to be no easy. The story behind and the journey ahead garnered a heartfelt sentiment from the community online.

The rodeo champion unfurls a cumbersome road ahead

On the 5th of January, Tim O’Connell took to Instagram to speak about his break from the sport. “My start to the 2024 season is going to be put on hold,” he started sharing a post. He further revealed that for the past year, he had been dealing with a partial tear in his left groin. “Unfortunately at the finals it came the rest of the way off,” he continued. The rodeo icon along with his wife will be making their way to Philadelphia to receive the necessary treatment. “Thank you all for the support and I’ll be back healthy and ready to roll!” he concluded.

According to his wife, Sami, O’Connell has been suffering from the injury for the most of 2023 rodeo season. However, it wasn’t until it started to get to him that he decided to stop and get treatment. “You say no excuses and you live that out every day!” Sami wrote. Along with her heartfelt appreciation came the fans’ prayers for the 32-year-old.

Support pours in for the world champion

O’Connell’s revelation presented the toughness and the grit he walked for the season, winning 9 and co-championing 3. The reality called for admiration from the fans. “Wow! That’s a lot of pain to endure.” “Prayers for a complete recovery!” one wrote. While another exclaimed, “Praying for a speedy recovery champ!” The comments were further extended wishes for Sami through the process, mindful of the situation. “Sending our love to you and Sami for a quick recovery!!” a comment read.

Also Read: “Truly a Family Atmosphere”: Salem Rodeo Prepares for Spectacular Eight Event Lineup

While a fan expressed missing the rodeo star performing, another stepped ahead to offer help. “Praying for a speedy recovery. Will miss ya on the cowboy channel” and “Let me know if you need anything while in Philly. We are only a short drive away,” the comments read.

Watch This Story: “He Got Hit Pretty Hard”: Family Devastated After 19-Year-Old Bull Rider Gets Fatally Injured at Rodeo in Calgary