Leeds Rhinos rugby great Rob Burrow CBE has died at the age of 41 from Motor Neurone Disease, triggering an outpouring of tributes both inside and outside the world of sport.
Burrow enjoyed a glittering 16-year playing career with Leeds from 2001 to 2017, during which he won a total of 16 major honours, including eight Super League titles, three World Club Challenge crowns and two Challenge Cups.
A two-time Harry Sunderland Trophy winner - awarded to the best player in the Super League Grand Final - Burrow was also named in the Super League Dream Team on three occasions, playing a total of 492 matches for the Rhinos.
Following his retirement, Burrow was diagnosed with MND - a neurodegenerative disorder with no cure, which significantly decreases a person's life expectancy - and dedicated his remaining years to increasing awareness about the disease.
Together with fellow Leeds legend Kevin Sinfield - who completed a series of gruelling marathons and ultramarathons - the pair raised over £15m to combat the debilitating condition and were awarded CBEs in 2024 for their efforts.
Rob Burrow, a legend who will never be forgotten ❤️ pic.twitter.com/Prv7Bi702t
— Sky Sports Rugby League (@SkySportsRL) June 2, 2024
"Rob inspired the entire country"
Announcing the former scrum-half's death on Sunday, Leeds paid a heart-rending tribute to one of their all-time greats for his efforts both on and off the field, saying: "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 (MND) since his diagnosis in December 2019. He passed away peacefully at Pinderfield's Hospital near his home surrounded by his loving family after becoming ill earlier this week.
"Burrow played his entire career with Leeds Rhinos and won every honour with the club as part of their golden generation. A hard working and dedicated player, his fearless performances made him one of the most respected players in the Rhinos ranks."
Among the figures to pay tribute to Burrow was The Prince of Wales, whom the late 41-year-old and Sinfield received their CBEs from, writing on X: "A legend of Rugby League, Rob Burrow had a huge heart. 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."
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak hailed the "amazing legacy" that Burrow created during his battle with MND, writing: "Rob was an inspiration to everyone who met him or who heard his incredible story. I was honoured to spend some time with him last year.
Rob Burrow. Incredible. pic.twitter.com/iVmmcpfkk2
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) June 2, 2024
"The little fella who made a massive impact"
"He drove a fundraising campaign that supports vital new research improving the care for others – not least through the creation of The Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease in Leeds. He leaves behind an amazing legacy and my thoughts are with his friends and family."
England Rugby also labelled Burrow a "true champion", while Leeds United football club said that they were "devastated" to hear the news of the death of a "legend".
Broadcaster Dan Walker affirmed that the fight against MND will continue, saying: "He was the little fella who made a massive impact on the pitch and an even bigger one off it.
"Rob Burrow taught us so much in the way he dealt with his MND diagnosis and inspired millions with his continued determination to help others, despite what he was going through himself. He was a class act."
The Motor Neurone Disease Association also released a statement expressing their eternal gratitude to Burrow, labelling him a "consistent and passionate advocate" with unwavering support.
Burrow was inducted into the Leeds Rhinos Hall of Fame in 2020, two years before he was honoured with the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Helen Rollason Award at the 2022 ceremony.
Ben Knapton
