Spanish matador Alberto Duran, 36, was gored in the groin during a bullfight in Valdemoro, south of Madrid, on Sunday. The incident occurred during the final qualifying round of the Copa Chenel bullfighting tournament. Footage showed the bull rearing its head into Duran's groin, lifting him into the air before he managed to escape. Duran was rushed to the hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery for serious injuries to his testicles. Doctors later detected a blood clot in his leg, requiring a second urgent procedure. His condition is now stable and improving in the ICU.
This incident follows another severe injury in April, when Jose Antonio Morante de la Puebla, known as the "King of Bullfighters," suffered a perforated rectum during a bullfight in Seville. Additionally, Andres Roca Rey, 29, was gored in the thigh in the same venue, sustaining a 35cm-long wound with two trajectories. He was tossed by the bull and stepped on before being rescued by assistants.
Bullfighting remains a controversial practice, with critics highlighting the risks to both animals and participants. Supporters argue it is a cultural tradition with deep historical roots in Spain.