Hawks forward Chad Wingard could be sidelined for up to 12 months after suffering a serious achilles injury against the Western Bulldogs, casting some doubt over his playing future.

Wingard fell abruptly after taking off in pursuit of an opposition player just minutes into his club's upset win on Sunday.

The 30-year-old clutched at his leg before even hitting the grass and looked in some discomfort as well as disappointment, while being carried from the field.

Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell was unable to provide clarity on the day, but said it was sad to see Wingard struck down following a patch of good form.

"It obviously looked pretty significant at the time," Mitchell said post-match.

"He's been in such great form so it was really sad for him. We don't know the extent of it at this stage. It's a challenging one for all the boys because I think everyone is happy about the win but then obviously we're all feeling for Chad.

"I'll guess we'll wait and see what the medical update is in a couple of days."

Wingard travelled back to Melbourne with the playing group on Sunday night before seeing a specialist on Monday morning.

The club later confirmed he had ruptured his achilles tendon and will undergo surgery within the next fortnight once swelling reduces.

It forecasts a nine-to-12 month recovery amid an already injury-plagued season.

"Whilst we know this is a disappointing outcome for Chad, his teammates, and the wider Hawthorn family, what we do know is Chad is a man of great resilience, and we will continue to support him on his road to full recovery post surgery," Hawthorn general manager of football Rob McCartney said.

With his current contract expiring at the end of the current season his future in footy looks uncertain after 218 games between the Hawks and Port Adelaide.

Wingard arrived at the Hawks ahead of the 2019 AFL season following seven seasons for 147 games, 232 goals and a best-and-fairest medal at the Power.