New Zealand rugby legend Sonny Bill Williams has undergone open-heart surgery after doctors discovered he was born with a heart defect. The 41-year-old former All Blacks star documented the health scare in a lengthy video on his YouTube channel, explaining the condition was found during a routine check-up following neck surgery.
Surgery Success and Recovery
Speaking in footage filmed after the operation, Williams confirmed the procedure had been successful and said he was determined to use his experience to raise awareness of the importance of heart checks. Doctors told him the previously undetected defect could have affected his sporting career, despite his exceptional fitness.
Following the surgery, Williams admitted recovery was tough. "It's the hardest thing I've ever done. Day two, honestly, I thought I wasn't going to make it. It was crazy," he said.
Doctors Warned of Serious Risk
Williams revealed the severity of the condition, saying: "I'm so grateful. The doctor I've seen this morning, he's just told me that having this heart implication throughout my life would have implicated me and my sporting career. And upon reflecting, I feel like towards my late-20s, I definitely felt like I couldn't get as fit as I used to…"
He added: "The doctors both said that it's a miracle that you found it because it's a case of a perfectly fit looking person dropping dead. Because my heart was 7.5 centimetres, it was about to pop as the doctors said."
Support from Rugby Stars
News of the surgery sparked an outpouring of well-wishes from fans around the globe and some of the biggest names in the sport. Wales legend Jamie Roberts said on Instagram: "Recover well, pal", while Ardie Savea and Beauden Barrett also sent messages of support.
Williams has now offered an encouraging update on his recovery, telling viewers from his hospital bed that he had emerged from the operation in better condition. "I have a better heart than when I walked in here," he said.
Remarkable Career
Williams enjoyed a remarkable career across both codes of rugby, first establishing himself as a superstar in rugby league before switching to union. He went on to win two Rugby World Cups with New Zealand, helping the All Blacks lift the trophy in 2011 and 2015.
Williams retired from both codes in 2021 before turning his attention to professional boxing. His most recent heavyweight bout took place last year.
