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The 2023 Monster Energy Supercross season has taken yet another shocking turn, ending in heartbreak for fans of one of the sport’s most dominant riders — Eli Tomac. What looked to be another championship run for the Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing superstar came crashing to a halt when disaster struck during the 450 main event.
Midway through the race, Tomac suddenly slowed and came to a stop, grimacing in pain. Moments later, it was confirmed that he had ruptured his Achilles tendon, a devastating injury that immediately ruled him out of the final round and effectively ended his season. The once roared-on crowd fell silent as the reality sank in — the reigning champion’s quest for another title had come to a heartbreaking close.
Tomac’s exit opened the door wide for Team Honda HRC’s Chase Sexton, who was trailing closely behind in the points. With Tomac out, Sexton was set to be crowned the 2023 Supercross Champion, marking a huge milestone in his young career — but it’s a victory that even Sexton admitted came with mixed emotions. After the race, he expressed sympathy for his rival, saying, “Eli’s one of the toughest guys out there. You never want to win like this.”
The news only got worse for Tomac and his fans when doctors confirmed that the Achilles injury would sideline him for the rest of the 2023 season, including both the Pro Motocross Championship and the newly formed SuperMotocross World Championship. It’s a crushing blow for a rider who had been in the form of his life, dominating races and showing no signs of slowing down despite being one of the sport’s veterans.
While recovery from an Achilles rupture is a long and demanding process, those who know Tomac best believe he has the grit and determination to return stronger than ever. The 2023 season may have ended in heartbreak, but if history has taught fans anything, it’s this — Eli Tomac doesn’t stay down for long.