Mariano Rivera Surgery: Yankees’ Star Closer Undergoes Successful Knee Surgery

New York Yankees star relief pitcher Mariano Rivera says the surgery to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee went smoothly and that he is ready to get back into the game as soon as possible.

“My surgery was a success, it went perfectly,” the 42-year-old closer tweeted Tuesday. “I am looking forward to beginning my rehab soon. Thanks as always for your prayers.”

Rivera, a 12-time All-Star and the MLB’s all-time leader in saves, injured his knee May 3 at Kansas City while shagging fly balls during his team’s batting practice.

While the Yankees ballclub club offered no timetable for Rivera’s recovery time, team manager Joe Girardi was optimistic on his ace’s return in 2013.

“With a lot of guys, it’s whatever their bodies allow them to do,” Girardi said. “They can give you a timetable, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s gonna be before or after. They just kind of give you a timetable. I think we expect him next year.”

Girardi added:

“I’m sure Mo’s anxious to get going. He was feeling pretty good when he was walking around before the surgery. So I think it’s the initial shock of the injury that’s the hardest part, then you kind of get your mind focused on coming back.”

ABC News reports that Rivera, 42, does not have a contract beyond this season, though he and the Yankees have consistently referenced his comeback in 2013.

Following his ACL tear, it was rumored the hard-throwing right-hander would retire, but Mariano vowed not to let the knee injury end his career.

ESPN has more on Mariano Rivera’s surgery in the video below: