- READ MORE: Bailey Smith shows fans the INSANE workout
Bailey Smith has made the most of his torn ACL this year after the horror knee injury put him on the bench for the season.
The injured Bulldogs star, 23, didn't let physical rehabilitation get in the way of his career aspirations as he celebrated a massive milestone for his drink brand Barry.
After a luxury trip to Europe, the footy hunk returned home to accept the Coles Liquor supplier award for his alcoholic beverage, reported the Herald Sun on Sunday.
'Really proud of what we have been able to achieve in such a short period of time,' the athlete said of his Aussie-made passion project.
'This is just the beginning. This isn't just a drink. We are building something bigger.
'Having business to focus on while rehabbing on my ACL has been a blessing in disguise and I can't wait to get back out there next year.'
Bailey isn't the only footy star working on the alcohol venture, with his partners including Nick and Josh Daicos, Charlie Curnow, and NRL player Reece Walsh.
The midfielder and his agent Robbie D'Orazio developed the idea for Barry - a shochu, vodka and soda water drink - while travelling in Japan.
Bailey Smith, 23, (pictured) has made the most of his torn ACL this year after the horror knee injury put him on the bench for the season
It comes after Bailey's 2024 season was completely wiped out by a shock injury to his knee mid-way through a training session with the Western Bulldogs in December.
Scans later confirmed he injured his anterior cruciate ligament, putting his entire football career at a crossroads.
Bailey took to Instagram after learning the shattering news and posted a photo of himself training with the caption, 'Ahh well, she'll be right,' with a blue heart emoji.
The injured Bulldogs star didn't let physical rehabilitation get in the way of his career aspirations as he celebrated a massive milestone for his drink brand Barry
Followers were quick to send their best wishes after the post and urge him to stay with the club amid ongoing speculation about his future.
The midfielder has been linked to a move away from the Bulldogs when his contract runs out at the end of next year.
'We're all extremely disappointed for Bailey and empathise with him greatly,' Bulldogs football director Chris Grant said.
'The entire club will rally around him during this difficult time as he begins his rehab journey.'
After a luxury trip to Europe, the footy hunk returned home to accept the Coles Liquor supplier award for his alcoholic beverage, reported Herald Sun on Sunday
