Mariano Rivera's torn Achilles revealed by Andy Pettitte, with a reemerged Yankees Old-Timers' Day video showcasing the incident
Mariano Rivera Sustains Torn Achilles Tendon During Yankees Old-Timers' Day Game
Mariano Rivera, the legendary New York Yankees pitcher, suffered a devastating injury during the Old-Timers' Day game held at Yankee Stadium on August 9, 2025. The 55-year-old Rivera, a regular participant in the event since his retirement in 2013, tore his Achilles tendon while playing in center field.
The injury occurred during an at-bat against former teammate Andy Pettitte. Rivera hit a single, and as he attempted to catch a fly ball, he felt his injury "pop." The incident left him crumpled on the ground, and he was subsequently attended to by trainers.
The video of the moment of Rivera's injury was posted on social media, showing the shock and dismay of both players and spectators. Andy Pettitte described the incident as a "freak accident."
Roger Clemens, who was broadcasting the Yankees' game against the Astros at the time, announced Rivera's injury. Clemens later mentioned that the injury was worse than initially thought, beyond a hamstring strain. Rivera will undergo surgery next week.
The Old-Timers' Day game commemorated the 25th anniversary of the Yankees' 2000 World Series championship and marked the first such event since 2019. Yankees manager Aaron Boone expressed his enjoyment at the game's return, noting that it is unique due to seeing former players still displaying their skills despite being past their prime.
The Old-Timers' Day game had not been held since 2019, partially due to injury concerns. Rivera's injury has sparked discussions about the risks for retired players participating in exhibition games. In 2012, Rivera previously suffered a serious leg injury while in the outfield, tearing his ACL during batting practice.
Despite the unfortunate turn of events, the Old-Timers' Day game was a celebration of the Yankees' rich history and the enduring spirit of its legendary players. Rivera's injury serves as a reminder of the passion and dedication these players continue to have for the game, even in their retirement.
[1] Yankees Old-Timers' Day Game Returns After Injury Concerns [2] Mariano Rivera Suffers Torn Achilles Tendon During Old-Timers' Day Game [3] Mariano Rivera Injury Sparks Debate About Risks for Retired Players [4] Video Shows Moment of Mariano Rivera's Injury [5] Mariano Rivera's Career and Legacy
- Mariano Rivera, the legendary New York Yankees pitcher, sustained a torn Achilles tendon while playing baseball during the 2025 Old-Timers' Day game, adding to concerns about the risks of retired players participating in exhibition games.
- In addition to his impressive career accomplishments, Mariano Rivera experienced a significant setback during the 2025 Old-Timers' Day game, tearing his Achilles tendon while playing center field.
