HAWTHORN star Cyril Rioli has been granted compassionate leave after his father underwent heart surgery this week. 

The Norm Smith medallist's father suffered a heart attack on the Thursday before this year's Grand Final. 

Hawthorn football manager Jason Burt said the club supported Rioli and he would be granted as much leave as he required.

"It has obviously been a very tough period for the Rioli family and we are doing all we can to support them as Cyril Snr continues his recovery," Burt said in a statement on Sunday evening.

"We fully understand Cyril’s desire to be with his family at this time and as such have granted him compassionate leave for as long as he requires.

"Cyril’s wellbeing is our number one priority and we ask that he and his family’s privacy be respected at this time."

Rioli's father is the brother of the late Richmond Norm Smith medallist Maurice Rioli and was a champion player in the Northern Territory, winning 12 premierships with St Mary's. 

Hawthorn's full playing list is due to return to training on Monday.