All Blacks legend Jonah Lomu has died unexpectedly age 40, All Blacks doctor John Mayhew has confirmed to New Zealand‘s 3News.
NZR CEO Steve Tew also confirmed the news:
NZR CEO Steve Tew: “….Jonah was a legend of our game and loved by his many fans both here and around the world.”
— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) November 18, 2015
The Tongan big winger had been long-battling kidney problems before his death, suffering from a rare kidney disorder known as nephrotic syndrome. He received a life-saving kidney transplant in 2004, but his body rejected it 2011.
Tributes from the rugby world and beyond are flowing thick and fast:
Jonah Lomu was the epitome of pace, power, strength and skill. An emotional sporting night. https://t.co/Y0bOSo2ClP
— Mark Chapman (@markchapman) November 18, 2015
Our thoughts are with Jonah Lomu’s family, friends and teammates. RIP to an absolute legend.
— Wellington NZ (@Wellington_NZ) November 18, 2015
RIP Jonah Lomu, not only a massive rugby icon but the face of the greatest playstation game ever, thanks for the memories ??
— Alex Walmsley (@engywalmsley) November 18, 2015
RIP my all time favourite player Jonah Lomu. Will never forget the most crushing handshake I ever experienced as a 15 year old
— Cadeyrn Neville (@Cadeyrn) November 18, 2015
RIP Jonah Lomu ?? – devastating news! True legend of the game
— DannyCipriani (@DannyCipriani87) November 18, 2015
For fringe followers of rugby like me, Jonah Lomu was rugby. He was the reason I watched the 1995 world cup. Very sad to hear of his death.
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) November 18, 2015
Tragic news. We have lost one of the best ever to play our game. A great player and a great man. Gone too soon. RIP Jonah Lomu.
— Gregor Townsend (@gregortownsend) November 18, 2015
RIP Jonah Lomu. An absolute legend. Can’t really believe it. These are such sad times
— Chris Stark (@Chris_Stark) November 18, 2015
RIP Jonah.
Image: Ross Setford via Getty Images.
