Three-time NFR Qualifier Wacey Schalla sidelined following a broken femur at Music City Rodeo.
Three-time NFR Qualifier Wacey Schalla was carried out of the Music City Rodeo last night on a stretcher after breaking his femur during the bull riding.
The 20-year-old Oklahoma cowboy has already solidified his spot as one of the greats. He made history during the 2025 NFR by surpassing $1 million in lifetime earnings – the youngest PRCA cowboy to do so. The previous title holder was calf roping phenom Riley Webb, who has etched his own name into the record books.
©Casey St BlancWhat makes Schalla such a fierce competitor is his ability to not only compete, but excel in multiple events at the professional level – and rough stock events, at that. Along with Stetson Wright, Schalla marks a new era of the true “all around cowboy.”
While this puts a halt to his summer run, Schalla’s 2026 NFR dreams are far from over. He currently sits second in the all around standings and third in bareback riding, giving him a buffer while he takes time to recover. No matter what the rest of the season holds for him, we can be sure he'll come back stronger and more determined than ever.
According to Justin Sportsmedicine Team’s Rick Foster, Schalla is expected to be out at least three months. He suffered a midshaft femur fracture in his upper leg after getting hung up during his ride. He is expected to have surgery at Vanderbilt Medical Center this morning.
It’s no secret that bareback riding and bull riding are two of the most physically-demanding events in rodeo, but Schalla’s youth is on his side and should help aid him in recovery.
It’s unclear what the rest of Schalla’s season will look like, but we will share more as information is released. Rodeo Roundtable sends our prayers for a successful surgery and full recovery! We look forward to seeing you dominate the arena soon.
