Former Australian rules footballer Mark Hutchings has tragically announced the death of his partner, Hannah.
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The 2018 AFL Premiership winner revealed that Hannah died just two days after giving birth to their daughter, Sofia.
Condolences and tributes have since poured in from across the football community following the heartbreaking announcement.
AFL Star's Partner Dies Two Days After Giving Birth
Hutchings took to Instagram to share the tragic news.
"It is with deep sadness that I share the sudden loss of my beautiful partner, Hannah," he wrote. "2 days following the birth of our daughter, Sofia."
"I am shattered. Her dream was to become a Mum, so it's been incredibly difficult to take."
The post received more than 70,000 likes in less than 24 hours, with thousands of people offering their condolences and support.
Hutchings' former teammate Jack Darling reached out, saying "Love you Hutchy, always here for you."
Meanwhile, Darling's wife Courtney said "Been thinking of you everyday Hutch, no words will ever be enough. P?raying for you and your beautiful Sofia."
Dr. Mona, who goes by pedsdoctalk and has more than 1.7 million followers, also offered her condolences.
"Anytime a mother loses their life during or after childbirth; my heart breaks," she wrote. "Thinking of you and your beautiful daughter."
Mark Hutchings Thanks Fans for Their Support
Hutchings and Hannah reportedly began dating in 2023.
"Thank you for all of your messages of support, I can't always reply to them all but I do appreciate them," he added to his social media post.
"Sofia and I love you and will miss you very much Hannah."
Hutchings concluded the post with a heart emoji followed by a broken heart.
Now 35, Hutchings was the 20th pick in the 2010 Rookie Draft and the 60th selection in the 2012 National Draft.
He spent the 2010 season with St Kilda but did not make a senior appearance for the club.
West Coast selected Hutchings in 2012, and he went on to represent the Eagles between 2013 and 2021.
Hutchings made 120 appearances for West Coast during his career and helped the club win the 2018 AFL Premiership.
