Hugo Gustafsson Faces Vision Loss and Awaits Surgery After Severe SHL Eye Injury

Hugo Gustafsson, a 25-year-old forward for Växjö in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL), is grappling with severe vision impairment following a serious eye injury in a recent match against Rögle. During the game, Gustafsson was struck in the right eye by a stick, leading to immediate pain and the dislocation of his eye lens, resulting in significantly blurry vision. As of October 23, 2025, he reported that he can barely see any shapes, only perceiving light with his injured eye, stating, "I don’t see if anyone is holding up any fingers right in front of me." (Source: 112545, 112562)

Due to swelling around his eye, Gustafsson has not yet been able to undergo the necessary surgery to repair the damage. The operation is scheduled for next Tuesday in Lund. The injury forced him to temporarily stop playing and limit his activities to light gym work and cycling, avoiding any exertion that could raise eye pressure. He has also refrained from driving because of his impaired vision. He expressed nervousness and uncertainty about the surgery but remains hopeful because of his confidence in the medical care he is receiving. (Source: 112562, 112545)

Gustafsson's contract with Växjö extends through 2027, but his immediate priority is regaining his sight rather than returning to the ice. He reflected on the incident as a frightening experience filled with pain and anxiety, especially when the full extent of his vision loss became apparent. Despite the severity of the injury, he is preparing mentally for the upcoming surgery as a crucial step toward recovery. (Source: 112545)