Gulden in the hunt: Swan star’s medal hopes

By the Editorial Team · Monday, September 21, 2026

Sydney Swans midfielder Errol Gulden has emerged as a strong contender in the Brownlow Medal race following an impressive late-season surge, challenging frontrunner Nick Daicos and his own teammates Isaac Heeney and Chad Warner. Gulden’s late form and likely full season participation contrast with Heeney and Warner’s impressive performances but suspension-related absence from the medal ceremony, highlighting a shift in focus as the vote count approaches.

Sydney Swans midfielder Errol Gulden is emerging as a compelling contender in the Brownlow Medal count after a strong finish to the Australian Football League (AFL) season, adding intrigue to what has been shaping up as a battle among Sydney teammates and other top performers.

While Collingwood’s Nick Daicos appears poised to claim his first Brownlow Medal, several Swans players, including Isaac Heeney and Chad Warner, have also been prominent throughout the year. Both have delivered standout performances that will likely see them well represented during the vote tally on Monday.

Heeney, who has consistently been one of the Swans’ highest-rated players this season, is expected to receive multiple best-on-ground votes, particularly coming off a dominant display against Richmond where he amassed five goals, five clearances, and 32 disposals. Warner’s contribution has also been significant, highlighted by a notable effort in round 16 against Brisbane where he recorded four goals, eight clearances, and 28 disposals. Both players’ bids for votes, however, could overlap, potentially limiting their individual tallies.

Despite their strong seasons, Heeney and Warner face the challenge of missing the Brownlow Medal ceremony due to suspensions, which will see them absent from the traditional event held at the Crown Palladium and instead watching from home in tracksuits.

Gulden’s trajectory offers an unexpected twist as the count winds down. After returning from a shoulder dislocation sustained before the mid-season bye, the midfielder initially took time to regain form but has since elevated his game dramatically. Over his last five matches, Gulden averaged 40.4 disposals and 6.6 clearances per game, possibly earning maximum votes in every game during this period. This late surge positions him as a serious contender capable of challenging Daicos for next year’s medal, especially considering Gulden’s likely full participation across all 23 games.

As the count unfolds, attention will shift from the early duel between Heeney and Warner to whether Gulden’s remarkable finish can culminate in an elite individual accolade. The Swans’ strong season, culminating in a likely top-two team finish, ensures multiple players remain in the conversation for the league’s prestigious individual award.

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