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New Zealand legend Jonah Lomu tragically passed away last night, aged 40, from suspected kidney failure
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The rugby union great battled rare kidney disorder Nephrotic syndrome
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He received a transplant in 2004 but his body rejected it in 2011
All Blacks legend Jonah Lomu has died at the age of 40, it has been confirmed.
Lomu had a long history of health issues dating back to 1995 when he was diagnosed with Nephritic Syndrome, a rare kidney disorder.
His rugby career was put on hold to treat the illness, and he had a kidney transplant in 2004.
Despite those setbacks, the 63-cap New Zealander enjoyed a stellar career that still sees him lauded to this day.
His on-field exploits came to an end in 2009 after a short comeback with Marseille, but he remained active in the game after retirement and attended the recent Rugby World Cup in England as a promoter.
The worldwide icon, who still holds the record for tries in the World Cup with 15, tweeted as recently as Monday as he stopped off in Dubai on his way back to his hometown of Auckland with his family, but has passed away suddenly in the place of his birth.
New Zealand is now left to mourn one of its greatest sporting heroes.
“We’re all shocked and deeply saddened at the sudden death of Jonah Lomu,” New Zealand Rugby chief executive Steve Tew said.
John Mayhew, the former All Blacks doctor, confirmed the news on Wednesday morning.
More details soon…