Former Super League star and Leeds Rhinos legend Rob Burrow has passed away, less than five years after being diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease.
Burrow, 41, was diagnosed in December 2019, and become a passionate spokesperson for MND research, launching the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease in Leeds in 2019.
The halfback enjoyed a storied career in the Super Leauge; he joined Leeds' academy in 1999, before making his senior debut in 2001, and played his entire career for the club before retiring in 2017, after winning the grand final of that year.
He was also an English representative, donning the red and white jersey on 13 occasions between 2004 and 2013.
Burrow's family released a statement paying tribute to the fallen star, thanking the community for their support during his illness.
"The outpouring of love and support that Rob and the whole Burrow family have received over the last four and a 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," the statement read.
"For those who knew Rob throughout his life, his determination and spirit in the face of MND over the last four and a 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."
Burrow's club Leeds also released a statement regarding his passing.
"It is with deep sadness that the club can confirm that former player Rob Burrow CBE has passed away, aged 41. Rob inspired the entire country with his brave battle against motor neurone disease since his diagnosis," the club said.
"He passed away peacefully at Pinderfields Hospital near his home surrounded by his loving family after becoming ill earlier this week. On behalf of the Burrow family, we would like to thank the staff for their compassion and caring for Rob in his final days."