Adelaide Crows Star Luke Nankervis Shares Viral Moment of Lockjaw Struggle
A recent social media post featuring Adelaide Crows star Luke Nankervis has captured the attention of many, as it shows the athlete experiencing a rare and painful condition known as lockjaw. The video, shared by his teammate Josh Rachele on TikTok, has already amassed over 100,000 views, sparking widespread interest and discussion among fans.
The clip, titled ‘POV: your friend gets locked jaw at 12am’, highlights Nankervis, who is 22 years old, struggling with the condition while waiting to be seen in a hospital. Despite the discomfort, Nankervis appeared in good spirits, even managing to laugh while Rachele filmed the moment. This lighthearted approach helped to ease some of the tension surrounding the situation.



The post quickly became a topic of conversation among Rachele’s followers, many of whom were curious about how Nankervis ended up with lockjaw. Some suggested that the issue might have been related to something as simple as eating pasta that was “a little too al dente.” Others joked about whether the condition was caused by watching a particular game involving Brayden Cook, referencing the Adelaide Crows’ victory in Showdown 59 against Port Adelaide.
This reference was a nod to Cook’s crucial goal that sealed the win for the Crows just before full-time. While these comments were largely humorous, they also highlighted the unexpected ways in which sports events can influence people’s lives, even in the form of a viral video.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, lockjaw — commonly referred to as tetanus — is a serious medical condition that causes muscles to seize up and spasm uncontrollably. The condition occurs when bacteria enter the body and produce a toxin that disrupts the nervous system. If left untreated, it can be life-threatening. Symptoms include difficulty swallowing or breathing, as well as drooling.
Nankervis and the Adelaide Crows are set to face the Richmond Tigers at the MCG on May 10. Fans will be hoping that the player makes a full recovery and is able to return to the field in time for the match.
For now, the viral video has not only brought attention to Nankervis’ condition but also served as a reminder of the importance of seeking medical help when experiencing unusual symptoms. It has also provided a moment of levity for fans, showing how even challenging situations can lead to unexpected moments of humor and connection.






