“I could barely move. I lost 6 kilos” » The ordeal of a Grenoble player who got infected after an injury on synthetic pitch
Article by Tudor Belivacă – Published Monday, 02 March 2026, 16:31 / Updated on Monday, 02 March 2026 16:31
Sam Davies (32 years old), the Welsh rugby player registered in Grenoble, revealed on social networks that he suffered an at least strange injury: he became infected with a staphylococcus that attacks the adductors and the bone. He reported that he contracted staphylococcus after a match played on a synthetic pitch.
The bacteria caused him great pain which he described as the worst of his life. For almost two months, the rugby player has been fighting staphylococcus, which caused him to lose 6 kilograms, according to those from RMC Sport. The overture from Grenoble is said to have contacted the staph during a Pro D2 match played on the Provence Rugby team's synthetic pitch on January 8.
Sam Davies' freak injury ordeal: 'Infection turned injury cost me 6kg'
“After a difficult few months, my initial suspicion was confirmed: a staph infection, probably picked up from the synthetic pitch in Provence, which spread to the adductors and eventually reached the bone. It attacked my hip and adductor area so aggressively that I could barely move.
The long delays in diagnosis, repeated hospitalizations and lack of answers left me incredibly frustrated and angry. After a tough recovery from dislocating my shoulder last year, this happened in my first game, it was incredible. The infection turned injury cost me 6kg and brought me the most pain I have ever experienced in my career.
It's been extremely difficult to miss most of the season and only play two games so far – I'm not used to it. However, this challenge has only strengthened my motivation and determination to return to the pitch with my brothers in Grenoble,” the rugby player shared on social media.
Despite a difficult season for the team, both on and off the field, I am confident that this group will soon return to the level we expect. I am not sure exactly when I will return, but when I do, I will be fully focused on the goals of the club. I can't wait to wear this shirt again – it means so much to me – and represent the red and blue of Team Grenoble once again!
-Sam Davies on Social Media
Sam Davies has been at Grenoble since 2023, but has been plagued by injuries. This season he played only two matches: against Dax in December and Provence Rugby in January. He has 8 caps for Wales.
