Rugby Legend Rob Burrow CBE Succumbs to Motor Neurone Disease at 41
Who’s Rob Burrow?
Rob Burrow was an English former professional rugby league footballer known for his remarkable career as a scrum-half or hooker. He spent his entire 16-year professional career with Leeds Rhinos in the Super League, making over 400 appearances between 2001 and 2017. Despite his stature, standing at 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing less than 11 stone, Burrow was celebrated as one of the most successful players in the competition’s history. His achievements include eight Super League championships, two Challenge Cups, three Super League Dream Team honors, and two Harry Sunderland Trophies.
It is with deep sadness that the club can confirm that former player Rob Burrow CBE has passed away, aged 41.
More here https://t.co/Lp2EcIu7ws pic.twitter.com/kyq6Er0FEp— Leeds Rhinos (@leedsrhinos) June 2, 2024
Rob Burrow’s death announcement
“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 THROUGHOUT HIS LIFE WHETHER THAT WAS ON THE RUGBY LEAGUE FIELD OR DURING HIS BATTLE WITH MND (MOTOR NEURONE DISEASE).
HE NEVER ALLOWED OTHERS TO DEFINE WHAT HE COULD ACHIEVE AND BELIEVED IN HIS OWN ABILITY TO DO MORE.
THE OUTPOURING OF LOVE AND SUPPORT THAT ROB AND THE WHOLE BURROW FAMILY HAVE RECEIVED OVER THE LAST FOUR AND HALF YEARS MEANT SO MUCH TO ROB.
IN PARTICULAR, THE RUGBY LEAGUE FAMILY AND THE MND COMMUNITY HAVE RALLIED AROUND ROB TO INSPIRE HIM, THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT.
FOR THOSE WHO KNEW ROB THROUGHOUT HIS LIFE, HIS DETERMINATION AND SPIRIT IN THE FACE OF MND OVER THE LAST FOUR AND HALF YEARS CAME AS NO SURPRISE.
ROB NEVER ACCEPTED THAT HE COULDN’T DO SOMETHING, HE JUST FOUND HIS OWN WAY OF DOING IT BETTER THAN ANYONE ELSE.
HE WILL CONTINUE TO INSPIRE US ALL EVERY DAY.
IN A WORLD FULL OF ADVERSITY, WE MUST DARE TO DREAM.”
In a somber announcement that has sent shockwaves through the sports world, Leeds Rhinos confirmed the passing of their beloved former player, Rob Burrow CBE, at the age of 41. Burrow, a figure synonymous with resilience and determination, lost his valiant battle with Motor Neurone Disease (MND), a condition he had been diagnosed with in late 201912.
Rob Burrow’s legacy transcends the rugby field; he was a warrior who fought his illness with the same ferocity he displayed in his sport. Standing at just 5 feet 5 inches, Burrow was a giant in stature within the rugby league community. His career was nothing short of illustrious, decorated with eight Super League titles, three World Club Challenges, and two Challenge Cups during his 17-year tenure with Leeds Rhinos2.
The devastating news of his death comes nearly five years after his diagnosis, which he received only two years post-retirement. Despite the challenges MND posed, Burrow became a beacon of hope and an advocate for awareness, embodying the spirit of a true champion1.
Burrow’s contributions to rugby league and his efforts to raise awareness for MND were recognized at the highest levels, earning him a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the New Year Honours List1. His relentless campaign against the disease, coupled with his unwavering optimism, inspired countless individuals and brought attention to the plight of those suffering from MND.
The rugby community, fans, and former teammates are mourning the loss of a man who was not only a phenomenal athlete but also a remarkable human being. Rob Burrow leaves behind a legacy of courage, having touched the hearts of many with his indomitable spirit.
Leeds Rhinos and the broader rugby family extend their deepest condolences to Burrow’s wife Lindsey, their son, and two daughters. As tributes pour in, it is clear that Rob Burrow’s memory will continue to live on, both on the field and in the fight against MND
