Prince William Leads Tributes to Rugby Legend Rob Burrow

Prince William and former teammate Kevin Sinfield led heartfelt tributes to rugby league legend Rob Burrow, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 41 after a valiant battle with motor neuron disease (MND), according to Sky News. Burrow, a celebrated scrum-half standing just 5ft 5in (1.65m) tall, leaves behind a legacy of immense achievement and unyielding spirit.

Burrow’s illustrious career with Leeds Rhinos was marked by eight Super League championships, three World Club Challenge titles, and two Challenge Cups. His career spanned 16 years with over 400 appearances for Leeds before retiring in 2017. Tragically, Burrow was diagnosed with MND two years later.

Burrow is survived by his wife Lindsey and their three children, Macy, Maya, and Jackson. Prince William, in a personal message shared on social media, honored Burrow’s indomitable spirit, stating: “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”, via Daily Mail. The Prince also praised Burrow’s extraordinary efforts in raising over £15 million ($19 million) for a new MND care center.

Following his diagnosis, Burrow dedicated himself to raising awareness and funds for MND, with the unwavering support of his close friend and former teammate, Kevin Sinfield. Sinfield, now the England rugby union team’s skills and kicking coach, expressed his deep sorrow: “Today was the day that I hoped would never come. The world has lost a great man and a wonderful friend to so, so many. You will continue to inspire me every single day… you were the toughest and bravest man I have ever met. I will miss you, my little mate.”

The Leeds Rhinos announced Burrow’s passing in a heartfelt statement: “It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of our beloved son, husband, father, brother, and friend. Rob has always been a true inspiration… he never allowed others to define what he could achieve and believed in his own ability to do more.”

Despite the progression of his disease, which led to him using a wheelchair in 2021, Burrow continued his advocacy and fundraising efforts. “The worst thing for me is people pitying me,” he said. “I know it’s going to come, but I want to be as normal as ever.”

In a poignant moment last May, Sinfield carried Burrow over the finish line at the inaugural Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon, pushing his wheelchair throughout the 42-kilometer (26-mile) course. Leeds Rhinos plan to honor both Burrow and Sinfield with a statue at Headingley, celebrating their remarkable contributions and enduring friendship.

The Player of the Match award at this year’s Super League Grand Final will be renamed in Burrow’s honor, commemorating his unique achievement as the first player to win it twice, in 2007 and 2011. The MND Association, for which Burrow became a patron in 2021, remarked on his profound impact: “In doing so much, he inspired support from so many. It is a testament to the strength of feeling people have for Rob that the support in his name has never wavered.”

Burrow, who earned 15 caps for England and five for Great Britain, scored 196 tries in his distinguished career. Yet, it is the courage he displayed during his illness that will be remembered as his enduring legacy.