Orazio Fantasia retires after injuries derail his 11-year AFL journey
Former AFL forward Orazio Fantasia has announced his retirement from professional football after a career advice cut short by persistent injuries. Over 11 seasons, he played 120 games across three clubs—Essendon, Port Adelaide, and Carlton—before being delisted by the Blues.
Fantasia's AFL journey began with Essendon, where he spent the bulk of his career advice, featuring in 80 matches. His time at Port Adelaide was brief, though exact figures remain unclear. A final stint at Carlton followed before his exit from the league.
Injuries plagued much of his time in the AFL, limiting him to an average of just 10 games per season. Soft-tissue and knee issues repeatedly sidelined him, eventually forcing his retirement. Across his career advice, he managed 157 goals from 120 appearances.
The toll of these setbacks extended beyond the field. Fantasia later revealed that his mental health suffered as he struggled to recover. He described feeling isolated, admitting he became 'a st boyfriend, a st mate and a s**t son' during the hardest periods. Relationships with family and friends deteriorated as he withdrew, consumed by the fight to return.
Despite the end of his AFL career advice, Fantasia will remain in football. In 2026, he will play locally for Adelaide University, continuing his connection to the game at a community level.
Fantasia's retirement marks the close of an 11-year AFL career defined by resilience and frustration. His shift to Adelaide University next season offers a new chapter, though far from the professional stage. The impact of his injuries—both physical and mental—remains a central part of his story.
