Maccabi Tel Aviv Soccer Legend Alexander Polukarov Discusses Leg Amputation

Alexander Polukarov, a celebrated former defender for Maccabi Tel Aviv and one of the top foreign players in Israeli soccer during the 1990s, has spoken publicly for the first time since undergoing a leg amputation. Polukarov revealed that the decision to amputate part of his leg was due to a malignant tumor.

He explained that his knee had been bothering him for some time, and he had previously declined an offer for a knee replacement eight years prior, fearing the risks involved. A minor surgery to clean up the knee was performed instead. However, in December 2025, Polukarov slipped and twisted his ankle, which he believes may have injured his knee ligaments or meniscus. Although the pain subsided after three days, he did not seek medical attention.

In February, Polukarov noticed swelling and a lump below his knee, diagnosed as a Baker's cyst. A subsequent MRI revealed a tumor, which was later confirmed as malignant through a biopsy. The diagnosis was identified as musculoskeletal oncology, leading doctors to recommend amputation as the only viable option. He underwent the surgery on August 10.

Polukarov is currently undergoing weekly follow-up appointments and expects to be fitted for a prosthetic leg in approximately four months, once the stump has healed. He is using a walker at home and a wheelchair to get around. He described the phantom limb sensation as a strange feeling and emphasized the importance of the prosthetic leg, for which he is fundraising. He expressed gratitude for the donations received from the public, with amounts varying from 100 to 10,000 rubles.

He also mentioned receiving support from his former football colleagues, specifically noting that long-time friend Shura Uvarov sent him money. Polukarov stated that many people are calling and offering their support.