Bodybuilding Legend Ronnie Coleman in Serious Condition, Requires Emergency Surgery: Marca
Bodybuilding legend Ronnie Coleman, 61, is in serious but stable condition due to a bloodstream infection and faces emergency surgery for an additional health issue. His family remains hopeful as doctors work to identify the infection source, Marca reported.
By Kamaran Aziz
ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) — Ronnie Coleman, the eight-time Mr. Olympia champion and one of the most iconic figures in bodybuilding history, is currently in serious condition and facing emergency surgery following a bloodstream infection, Marca reported on Monday.
According to the 61-year-old athlete’s family, Coleman was rushed to the hospital last week and has remained under close medical observation. “At this time, Ronnie Coleman's overall condition remains serious but stable, with consistent signs of gradual recovery,” the family stated.
The statement explained that Coleman’s medical team is “actively working to identify the source of the infection,” adding that confirmation of the exact cause “may take several days” due to the complexity of testing involved. During a recent series of evaluations, doctors also discovered “an additional underlying health issue that will require surgical intervention.”
“This intervention is expected to take place in the coming days, and the medical team is confident in its approach as part of Ronnie's comprehensive care plan,” the family confirmed, expressing cautious optimism. “We remain hopeful and encouraged by Ronnie's resilience, and are deeply grateful for the unwavering support received from around the world. Please continue to keep Ronnie in your thoughts and prayers as we await the next stages of his recovery.”
Nicknamed “The King,” Coleman is revered as one of the most dominant athletes in the history of bodybuilding. Standing at 5 feet 11 inches and weighing over 330 pounds during competition, he amassed an unprecedented eight Mr. Olympia titles and 26 victories in International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB) competitions. His legendary physique and intense training routines earned him a global following.
Coleman retired from professional bodybuilding in 2007 and was inducted into the International Sports Hall of Fame in 2016.
As fans around the world send their well wishes, Marca’s report highlights the gravity of Coleman’s health situation while echoing the hope expressed by his family: “We keep hope.”
