Furman University defender Luke Munson had his lower leg amputated after being injured in a match this summer.
The 19-year-old sophomore sustained the injury in the Paladins’ 4-3 win against Duke on Aug. 27 in Durham, N.C.
The school confirmed on Thursday that Munson underwent an additional surgery on Wednesday due to complications.
“Luke is an incredible young man who means so much to our program and everyone who knows him,” head coach Brandon Tucker said.
“Our team and the entire Furman Athletics family are rallying around him and his family during this difficult time. Our focus is on supporting him in every way we can as he continues through the recovery process. We ask that everyone respect his privacy and his family’s privacy and keep them in your thoughts during this time.”
Munson confirmed the extent of the injury and announced he was retiring from the sport in a post on Instagram.
“I want to say thank you to everyone that I’ve ever had the honor of sharing a field with and calling my brother,” he said. “Thank you to everyone that’s been in my soccer journey for the good and the bad because you made me who I am today. Thank you for every team and staff member that gave me a chance to learn.
“After another surgery that resulted in having my lower leg amputated, I will no longer be playing the sport that I love. 13 years of amazing experiences with so many amazing people whether that be teammates or opponents. Finally, to the little kid that had dreams of going pro 13 years ago I’m sorry our dream had to end.”
Munson was making his third start of the season in the game at Duke.
He recorded three assists and started 22 games during his freshman season at Furman in 2025. He helped the team finish 16-2-5, winning Southern Conference regular season and tournament titles and earning its first trip to the NCAA College Cup.
Prior to joining Furman, Munson spent time with the academies of MLS clubs FC Dallas and Charlotte FC and played for the MLS NEXT Pro side Crown Legacy.
–Field Level Media
