A Tragic Loss
The rugby community was left reeling overnight as news broke of the sudden death of All Black legend, Jonah Lomu. The 40-year-old, who had been battling a rare kidney disease, passed away peacefully in his Auckland home.
A Sporting Icon
Lomu, known for his exceptional size and speed, made his All Blacks debut in 1994 and quickly became one of the most feared players in world rugby. His iconic try against England at the 1995 Rugby World Cup is widely regarded as one of the greatest moments in the sport’s history.
A Health Battle
Kidney Disease
Lomu was diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome, a rare kidney disease, in 1995. Despite undergoing two kidney transplants, his health continued to deteriorate in recent years.
Cardiac Arrest
The precise cause of Lomu’s death has not been released, but it is believed that he suffered a cardiac arrest.
Tributes Pour In
From Teammates
Former All Blacks captain Richie McCaw paid tribute to Lomu, saying He was a true legend. A player who changed the game and inspired us all.
From Opponents
Former England captain Martin Johnson said Jonah was a great opponent but more than that he was a great man. He will be sadly missed.
From Fans
Rugby fans around the world shared their condolences and memories of Lomu on social media.
The rugby world is united in mourning the loss of a true giant of the sport. Jonah Lomu’s legacy will live on as an inspiration to generations of players and fans alike.
Who was Jonah Lomu?
Jonah Lomu was a New Zealand rugby union player who played for the All Blacks from 1994 to 2002. He was born in Auckland, New Zealand, on 12 May 1975. He died in Auckland on 18 November 2015.
Lomu was a wing and is considered one of the greatest rugby union players of all time. He was known for his size, strength, and speed. He made his All Blacks debut in 1994 and quickly became one of the most feared players in world rugby.
Lomu played in two Rugby World Cups, in 1995 and 1999. He was a key member of the All Blacks team that won the World Cup in 1995.
Lomu was diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome, a rare kidney disease, in 1995. He underwent two kidney transplants, in 2004 and 2011. However, his health continued to deteriorate in recent years.
Lomu died at his home in Auckland on 18 November 2015, aged 40. He was survived by his wife Nadene and their two sons.
Kind regards
C. Dixon