'538 Home Run Legend' Rooted Out Hip Pain, Underwent Surgery in the U.S., Choi Jung Promises to Show a Healthy Form Next Year... Accompanies Younger Brother Choi Hang on His Rehabilitation Journey

*This content was translated by AI.

Choi Jung (39, SSG Landers), Korea's all-time home run leader, has finally eliminated the source of the hip pain that plagued him throughout this season.

SSG Landers announced on the 12th that "Choi Jung successfully completed hip surgery at a specialized medical institution located in Colorado, U.S."

Choi Jung plans to stay in the area for about two weeks to undergo an initial rehabilitation program. The team stated, "Prioritizing the player's psychological stability and systematic recovery, we are providing close support for a safe return by dispatching team staff and conditioning coaches to the location."

After completing surgery, Choi Jung said, "It was heavy-hearted to leave the team during the season for surgery. However, thanks to the fans' concern, the surgery went smoothly. I will diligently complete my rehabilitation program and return to show a healthy performance in next year's season," he vowed.

Choi Jung, the record-holder for most home runs in Korea (538 home runs), delivered an outstanding performance this season with a .306 batting average, 20 home runs, 57 RBIs, 45 runs scored, .397 on-base percentage, .616 slugging percentage, and 1.013 OPS (on-base plus slugging) in 71 games.

However, unexplained pain continued to torment Choi Jung. While he managed to hit despite the discomfort, he struggled to play in the field. He only played defense for 379 innings across 45 games. Even at the plate, he was not entirely free from pain. Thus, his performance was even more remarkable.

SSG worked tirelessly to identify the cause. The team's stance was that finding a clear cause was most important, whether through treatment or surgery.

Ultimately, a diagnosis requiring surgery was made. While replacing Choi Jung was practically impossible, SSG decided to finish the remaining season without him. With severe struggles from the starting pitching staff and the team dropping to ninth place, it was even considered the right timing for surgery. Since next year will be their final season at Munhak Stadium, and the Cheongna Dome era begins in 2028, the conclusion was reached that any further delay would not be acceptable.

SSG is providing Choi Jung with comprehensive support. His younger brother, Choi Hang (32), accompanied him on this trip to the U.S. for surgery and local rehabilitation. Choi Jung initially proposed his brother's accompaniment for undergoing surgery abroad, and Choi Hang decided to join his older brother in this endeavor.

Choi Hang said, "Just as I was preparing to conclude my playing career and get ready as a coach, my brother's surgery was scheduled. I decided because it would be helpful for him to have someone he could rely on in the U.S., and I am glad that I now have the opportunity to spend this time with him at an appropriate moment." He added, "Most importantly, I will closely observe the surgical process and support my brother's recovery from his side. I hope he recovers well."

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*This content was translated by AI.