Christian Petracca enjoyed just nine days off after playing a starring role in Melbourne’s drought-breaking premiership, in a frightening sign for the Demons’ rivals.
Petracca put together one of the greatest AFL grand final performances in the game’s history, finishing with 39 disposals and two goals in the Demons’ 74-point win.
While many would have been content with a big break after a magical premiership run, Petracca was back in the gym just over a week later.
READ MORE: Essendon boss hits out at finals drought theory
READ MORE: West Coast slammed as worst ‘by a million miles’
READ MORE: IOC sends sports ominous Russia message
“I had a lot of people saying, ‘Have a break, enjoy it’,” he told the Footy 2022 magazine.
“I was like, ‘What’s to enjoy?’ We were in Covid, the outlet for me was going to the gym or for a run.
“Bella (Petracca’s partner) works from 8:30 until 5:30. What was I going to do? Sit on my arse all day and watch replays of the game?
“Someone sent me a tweet that someone had posted: ‘Petracca already back in the gym.’
“That’s our job, that’s what I get paid to do.
“I don’t get paid to sit on my arse, I get paid to train and get better for next year.”
Petracca’s off-season workout regime represents a stunning change of mentality from a player who was criticised for not being in shape during the early part of his career.
The Norm Smith Medallist formed a lethal 1-2 midfield punch with All-Australian teammate Clayton Oliver during the Demons’ premiership season, with the pair compared to some of the game’s legendary duos.
They’ve been tipped to have another strong year, building off the back of a flag.
“They are the best one-two punch in the competition,” said former Kangaroos premiership player David King.
“There’s no talent issue, there’s no structure issue, because they are ahead of the game with what they’ve done defensively. I just think this group has a thirst for more.”