Former England and Leeds Rhinos rugby league player Rob Burrow, who was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) in 2019, has died, aged 41.
Britain's Prince William and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak were among those who paid tribute to Burrow, who played for Leeds between 2001-17, winning eight Super League titles.
"Rob inspired the entire country with his brave battle against MND, since his diagnosis in December 2019," said Leeds. "He passed away peacefully at Pinderfield's Hospital, near his home, surrounded by his loving family, after becoming ill earlier this week.
"Burrow played his entire career with Leeds Rhinos and won every honour with the club, as part of their golden generation. A hard-working and dedicated player, his fearless performances made him one of the most respected players in the Rhinos ranks."
After coming through the club's academy ranks prior to his debut in 2001, Burrow made 492 appearances for Leeds.
Following his MND diagnosis, Burrow and his family raised awareness and funds for the MND community.
Former Leeds and England captain Kevin Sinfield completed seven marathons in seven days to raise more than one million pounds (NZ$2.1 million) in support of the Motor Neurone Disease Association and his former teammate.
So far, the duo have inspired nearly 20 million pounds (NZ$4.2m) in fundraising across the UK and Ireland, Leeds said.
"Today was the day that I hoped would never come," said Sinfield. "The world has lost a great man and a wonderful friend to so, so many.
"You fought so bravely until the end, and became a beacon of hope and inspiration, not only for the MND community, but for all those who saw and heard your story.
"I would always say that you were, pound for pound, the toughest player I ever played alongside, however since your diagnosis, you were the toughest and bravest man I have ever met.
"The last four-and-a-half years, you showed the world what living and loving looked like, and this was always done with the biggest smile on your face."
Prince William tweeted: "A legend of rugby league, Rob Burrow had a huge heart. He taught us, in a world full of adversity, we must dare to dream.
"Catherine and I send our love to Lindsey, Jackson, Maya and Macy. W."
Sunak wrote: "Rob was an inspiration to everyone who met him or who heard his incredible story. I was honoured to spend some time with him last year.
"He drove a fundraising campaign that supports vital new research improving the care for others."
Burrow represented England from 2004-13 and Great Britain from 2005-07.
Reuters
