New Zealand Rugby has confirmed the death of All Blacks great Jonah Lomu at the age of 40.
Lomu died unexpectedly in the early hours of Wednesday, NZ Rugby chief executive Steve Tew confirmed.
“We’re all shocked and deeply saddened at the sudden death of Jonah Lomu,” Tew said.
“We’re lost for words and our heartfelt sympathies go out to Jonah’s family.
“Jonah was a legend of our game and loved by his many fans both here and around the world.”
Lomu had recently been in the United Kingdom to attend to promotional duties around the Rugby World Cup.
He quit the sport in 2002 after 73 games for the All Blacks because of Nephrotic syndrome, a rare kidney disease. He has been on dialysis treatment for more than a decade and had suffered occasional setbacks to his health.
Lomu scored 37 tries in 63 Tests and is regarded as one of New Zealand’s greatest wingers.
His spectacular performances at the 1995 Rugby World Cup made him one of the sport’s most recognisable global figures.
Muzzo
Guest
yeh Taylorman, it was a great shock.... Still in disbelief.
Muzzo
Guest
Yep RT, you were so lucky to have the Big Fella playing in your area of New Zealand, mate. I can always remember the Counties v Otago game at Manukau in 97, I think it was. When Jonah had just come back from injury. He crossed the line with "Goldie" Wilson tackling him. They both got up, & jogged back to halfway, with their arms around each others shoulder. What actually happened was when Goldie tackled Jonah, he said "Welcome back Big Fella", in which Jonah replied in a jovial way, "FO Goldie". Such was the comradeship of that 95 squad. Such great memories of this awesome player, who I still believe holds the RWC try scoring record, as he did it, in just two tournaments. Thanks for all of the memories Big Fella, you will be sorely missed. RIP Jonah.
Muzzo
Guest
Yep Chook it was a shock, knowing what Jonah has done for the game, off the field as well as on. The big thing is now, he is in great company with Jerry Collins & Norm Berryman. So many memories, as to what he has achieved, in both 15's & 7's. along with his outstanding ability to promote the game internationally, as his recent "three day tour", of South Africa showed. What a person he was to even, include going to see the ailing Joost. Thanks for the memories Big Fella. RIP Jonah.
Muzzo
Guest
Yep Digger, he will be up there with Jerry Collins & Norm Berryman. It was an absolute shock RIP Jonah, your memories will never be forgotten.
Tom Baulch
Roar Guru
Miss him forever, such a legend for all of the kids to look up to, will be sadly missed.
Charging Rhino
Roar Guru
Very sad news and a complete shock. RIP Jonah you legend! Prayers for your friends and family.
MJB
Guest
What a sad day. This guy is one of the greatest players to ever take to the field. Rest in peace brother.
ben
Guest
Sam...maeli said misi funeral was hardout...walk around poneke number 1 field with whole wgtn college doin haka. I didnt know misi but my eldest boy did..he plays for poneke.
Hertryk
Guest
Machooka... so true so true.. Jerry and Jonah on the same side AWESOME our loss ...Rugby Heaven's gain 2 fold..... RIP
Hertryk
Guest
.NrlDefender.....Next time I hear thunder I'll look up and say yep that's Lomu thundering down the line scoring a try in the game they play in heaven... Maybe with Jerry running as back up if needed..
Hertryk
Guest
I totally agree Diggercane.. Had a heartfelt sob when I heard the news.. Jerry and Jonah now on the same team playing the game in heaven. 2015 a very sad year for Rugby.. Condolences and prayers to his worldwide family and friends...My heart is broken so goodness know how they are coping right now.. We are all grieving with you if it's any consolation ..
cuw
Guest
A world cup medal is the onlything he could not win. He won 7S world cup (2001) and also Commonwealth gold medal (1998 i think) in addition to Bledisloe cup and 7s in HongKong (199
Vic
Guest
Very sad news. So sorry for his family and young sons. A wonderful rugby player.
whydoncha
Guest
Someone said to me once when someone dies unexpectedly they've often been in a lot of pain and suffering beforehand but they didn't let on. A colossal footie player, a true gentleman and hats off to the courage he showed playing with such a debilitating condition.
Taylorman
Guest
RIP Jonah, a true legend has fallen.
BluesMan
Guest
R.I.P Bro 11 forever #GOAT
Sean Turner
Roar Guru
This hit like a tonne of bricks. Has done so much to spread the game to all corners of the world, and it may be a long long time before we see anyone just as iconic. RIP big man, the game they play in heaven just got a whole lot tougher.
dsat24
Guest
Bugger
Darwin Stubbie
Guest
Sad news indeed ... RIP ..
Simon Duprier
Guest
If any one man can be said to epitomise what the All Blacks aspire to hold themselves to, Jonah Lomu was that man. An immense loss.