Controversial footballer Jamarra Ugle-Hagan lashes out at AFL veteran on social platforms, following the latter's criticism of players mocking mental health issues.

Controversial footballer Jamarra Ugle-Hagan lashes out at AFL veteran on social platforms, following the latter's criticism of players mocking mental health issues.

Unhappy footy star Jamarra Ugle-Hagan has gone on the offensive against critic Nick Riewoldt following a social media spat between the pair.

The troubled Western Bulldogs forward has been dealing with mounting personal issues that forced him to take a leave of absence from the club. Despite sporadic appearances at training, his off-field antics, such as posting party pics online, haven't gone unnoticed.

Riewoldt, former St Kilda star and AFL pundit, has not shied away from expressing his concerns about Ugle-Hagan's behaviour. He claimed that players "can essentially take the p*ss," and that the balance of power has tipped too much in the players' favor, particularly when it comes to matters related to mental health[3].

Ugle-Hagan seemed to take Riewoldt's words personally and sent a clear message in response by changing his Instagram display picture to an image of Riewoldt embroiled in a nude photo scandal back in 2010[4].

Meanwhile, the Bulldogs have thrown their full support behind Ugle-Hagan as he navigates his personal troubles. Despite being on full pay and receiving between $800,000 - $900,000 this season, Ugle-Hagan has missed every game so far in 2025[4].

His absence, coupled with his erratic behaviour, had led some to question his long-term future in the AFL. Early last season, Ugle-Hagan took a break for personal reasons and split from his influencer girlfriend, Olivia Kelly, with team-mates growing concerned over his off-field conduct[4].

Despite the controversy, the Bulldogs have reiterated their commitment to supporting Ugle-Hagan, stating that his health and wellbeing remain their top priority[4]. Luke Beveridge, the coach, is said to have considered dropping Ugle-Hagan before the team's elimination final against Hawthorn[4].

For those struggling with depression or anxiety, help is available. Contact Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.

Enrichment Data:

• Personal Issues and Leave: Ugle-Hagan has been granted indefinite leave by the Western Bulldogs to focus on his personal well-being, following several months of off-field struggles[1][2].
• Training Arrangements: In January, the Bulldogs had already announced flexible training arrangements for Ugle-Hagan, indicating ongoing support for his personal situation[1].
• Career Uncertainty: The leave has deepened concerns about Ugle-Hagan's AFL future, with speculation that he might not return to regular football or even stay with the Bulldogs beyond this season[1].

[1] Hyde, S. (2025). Jamarra Ugle-Hagan shuts himself away from Bulldogs camp as he deals with 'mental health issues'. Herald Sun. Retrieved from https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/western-bulldogs/jamarra-ugle-hagan-shuts-himself-away-from-bulldogs-camp-as-he-deals-with-mental-health-issues/news-story/d94383cee9c3acfdf0fd57cebfdef491

[2] Mathiesen, A., Baxter, T., Kay, J., & Loughnan, S. (2025, April 7). 'I don't blame you for what you're going through': Jamarra Ugle-Hagan to take indefinite leave from Western Bulldogs. The Age. Retrieved from https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/i-dont-blame-you-for-what-youre-going-through-jamarra-ugle-hagan-to-take-indefinite-leave-from-western-bulldogs-20250407-p5d3ed.html

[3] Footy Classified (2025, April 12). Nick Riewoldt: "Players can take the p*ss". Channel 7. Retrieved from https://7plus.com.au/footyclassified/feature/nick-riewoldt-players-can-take-the-p-s/video/9352668

[4] Ash, R. (2025, April 14). Jamarra Ugle-Hagan takes swipe at Nick Riewoldt with Instagram dig. Fox Sports. Retrieved from https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/western-bulldogs/jamarra-ugle-hagan-takes-swipe-at-nick-riewoldt-with-instagram-dig-xn55mj4b7s0gctkug184oqev1jj11vv1

[5] Blanchard, M. (2021). Nick Riewoldt involved in 2010 'nude photo scandal'. ABC News. Retrieved from https://www.abc.net.au/sport/football/a5350776-3172-47ea-9d44-3adab43fc79c

1. Ugle-Hagan's personal struggles have led him to take an indefinite leave of absence from the Western Bulldogs, sparking concerns about his long-term future in American football.
2. In 2025, general news outlets reported sporadic appearances at training for the troubled bulldogs forward, with his off-field antics, such as posting party pics online, being a subject of discussion.
3. Despite the controversy surrounding Jamarra Ugle-Hagan, the Bulldogs have shown their support for his health and wellbeing, choosing to prioritize his mental health.
4. As Hagan navigates his personal troubles, his absence and erratic behavior have raised questions about his future in the NFL, a professional sports league known for demanding physical and mental rigor.
5. Riewoldt, a former St Kilda star and AFL pundit, has been critical of Ugle-Hagan's behavior, claiming that players have too much power in matters related to mental health.
6. The sports world will closely watch Ugle-Hagan's progress and how he handles the challenges ahead in his personal life, potentially impacting his career and the public perception of athletes dealing with mental health issues.

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