Andrew Flintoff discusses the physical and psychological effects of the Top Gear accident, saying, – ‘Genuinely should not be here with what happened’

After suffering significant bodily and mental injuries in December 2022 from the terrifying Top Gear crash, former England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff has spoken out about it. During his recent appearance on ‘Freddie Flintoff’s Field of Dreams’, the former cricket player talked about his continuous battle to get over the incident.

While filming for Top Gear, Flintoff, a well-liked figure in sports and entertainment, was involved in a high-speed vehicle accident. Following the accident, he underwent several facial operations and required a lengthy recuperation period, during which he remained hidden from the public eye. Three weeks had passed after the collision when the episode was taped, and Flintoff acknowledged that he was surprised he had survived.

“After everything that transpired, I really shouldn’t be here. I’m just getting started on what will be a long road back. I must consider the good things in life, don’t I? I remain here. I have to take advantage of this second opportunity. I’m taking a second look at things,” he remarked.

I battle anxiety and experience nightmares and flashbacks: Andrew Flintoff

As evidence of the accident’s physical toll, Flintoff disclosed that he always wears glasses and a full face mask when he walks outside. But the psychological toll has been just as severe.

“I’ve just not been able to go out and do stuff as much as I’ve wanted to… I wear glasses and a full face mask everywhere I go right now. I suffer from anxiety, nightmares, and flashbacks. It’s been really difficult to handle. However, I’m thinking that I won’t go if I don’t take action. “I need to move forward with it,” he continued.

The former acknowledged that the recuperation process has been far more challenging than he had imagined, despite his wish to brush it aside.

“I believed I could simply brush it off. I was hoping to brush it aside and say, “This is me, I’m fine,” but that hasn’t happened. It’s been far more difficult than I anticipated,” he continued.

Flintoff told the sad truth when asked if he was feeling 100% by one of his cricket kids. He is aware that the wounds and scars will follow him for the rest of his life.

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“Not really. To be honest, I’m not sure if I will again because I have no idea what “completely better” means. I am who I am right now. I’ve changed from who I was. I’ll most likely have to deal with it for the rest of my life. Better? No. Distinctive,” he uttered.