The Sydney Roosters have confirmed Sam Walker underwent successful surgery on Sunday for a syndesmosis injury sustained on Saturday night.
Following reports emerging from News Corp on Sunday indicating Walker's surgery will end his 2026 season, the tri-colours have not ruled out their star halfback making a return before the end of the year.
"Walker underwent surgery on Sunday and will work closely with the Club's medical and rehabilitation staff towards a return to play as his recovery allows," a Roosters statement read.
Walker's injury has rocked the Roosters' strong chances of securing their first premiership in seven years, with the 24-year-old halfback reaching career-best form in 2026 and steering his side deep into the top four.
He was called up to don the famous Queensland Maroons halfback jersey in this year's State of Origin series, earning a Player of the Match accolade in Game 2 in Melbourne after engineering a big win over the NSW Blues.
The Roosters' season took a devastating blow when Walker's ankle became trapped awkwardly underneath Dolphins edge back-rower Kulikefu Finefuieaki, forcing him off the field in the 53rd minute in Round 26.
The Dolphins went on with the job in a 26-12 victory at Moore Park, handing the Roosters back-to-back losses and a major dent in their minor premiership chances.
NRL veteran Daly Cherry-Evans is expected to slot into the halfback jersey while Walker is sidelined, a jersey the former Sea Eagle spent 300+ NRL games wearing since his NRL debut in 2011.
Gun utility Hugo Savala is the likely man to return to the halves to partner Cherry-Evans in their finals run.
Walker's contract expires at the end of next year, meaning he is free to negotiate with rival clubs on November 1 this year for a 2028 deal.
Contract extension talks have been put on hold while Walker focuses on the premiership hunt, and will commence following the end of the season.
In the meantime, he is yet to be officially ruled out for the year, and if the tri-colours go deep enough into the finals, they are hoping for a return.
The Roosters will finish the home and away season with a rivalry match against South Sydney on Friday.
