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Legendary Belgian Cyclist Eddy Merckx Faces Surgery for Hip Infection

Cycling legend Eddy Merckx, 80, is set to undergo surgery for a persistent hip infection after ineffective antibiotics. Known as 'The Cannibal,' Merckx has faced multiple health challenges since fracturing his hip in 2024. He holds a record 11 Grand Tour titles.

Legendary Belgian Cyclist Eddy Merckx Faces Surgery for Hip Infection

Merckx, known as 'The Cannibal,' is expected to undergo surgery next week in Belgium.
 
The 80-year-old cyclist, regarded as the greatest in history, told the press that he admitted himself to the hospital on Monday, suffering 'incredible pain.' He expressed frustration with the ineffective antibiotic treatment, noting that surgery seems unavoidable.
 
"I’ve been in the clinic since last Monday," Merckx said, "There was a new infection in my hip. I was in incredible pain. They tried to treat the problem with a strong course of antibiotics, but it’s not fully effective. They will probably operate again on Monday. The struggle needs to end now; I’m exhausted."
 
Due to the hip fracture he sustained in the fall, Merckx has been in and out of the hospital for sixteen months. "I have had four new hips: once a temporary one, then three so-called ‘definitive’ replacements," he recently said. "At least twice a week, I go to Lieven Maesschalck in Antwerp, and two more times to a local physiotherapist."
 
"The problem is that I always have to be driven around. By my wife, by my daughter, and sometimes by Axel. I’m not allowed to drive because of the stroke. First, you have to wait six months, and then you have to pass a medical check."
 
Since fracturing his hip in 2024, Merckx has undergone several operations. He holds an unparalleled record of 11 Grand Tour titles across the Tour de France, Giro d'Italia, and Vuelta a Espana.