Former Wales fly-half Sam Davies has disclosed he has been battling an infection which left him barely able to move. The 32-year-old is currently playing for Grenoble in the French PRO D2 and has been out of action for an extended period. Davies has now confirmed he was diagnosed with a Staphylococcus infection, which he suspects was contracted whilst playing on an artificial surface at Provence.
Staphylococcus, commonly known as “staph”, is a widespread bacteria that many individuals carry on their skin without issue. However, if it enters the body through a cut or wound, it can trigger infections that occasionally need medical intervention. The infection proved so severe it travelled to Davies’ adductors and ultimately reached his bone.
“After a tough few months, my initial suspicion was confirmed: a Staphylococcus infection, likely picked up from the synthetic pitch in Provence, that spread to my adductors and eventually reached the bone,” Davies wrote on his Instagram page.
“It attacked my hip and adductor area so aggressively that I could barely move. The long delays in diagnosing it, repeated hospital stays, and lack of answers left me incredibly frustrated and angry.
“Coming off a hard-fought recovery from last year’s shoulder dislocation, having this happen on my first start back felt unbelievable.
“The infection-turned-injury cost me 6 kg and brought the worst pain I’ve ever experienced in my career.”
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The former Ospreys and Dragons playmaker has made a tremendous impact in France. Davies has been the standout fly-half in PRO D2, with Grenoble coming agonisingly close to Top 14 promotion over the last two campaigns.
Grenoble have felt Davies’ absence this season, with the side languishing in ninth place. “Missing most of the season and playing only two games so far has been extremely difficult – not something I’m used to,” he posted on Instagram.
“Still, this challenge has only strengthened my motivation and determination to return to the pitch with my @fcgrugby brothers.
“Despite a tough season for the team both on and off the field, I’m confident this group will soon return to competing at the level we expect.
“I’m not sure exactly when I’ll be back, but when I am, I’ll be fully focused on the club’s objectives. I can’t wait to pull on this jersey again – it means so much to me – and represent the red and blue of Grenoble once more!”