Rugby star Jai Arrow has retired from the National Rugby League in Australia after being diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) at the age of 30.
Shock Diagnosis
Arrow said he received the diagnosis recently after months of testing and medical consultations regarding ongoing symptoms. In a statement released today, he said: "After extensive medical testing and consultations regarding ongoing symptoms, I have recently received a diagnosis relating to a nerve and neurological condition."
The 30-year-old, who played for the South Sydney Rabbitohs and the Queensland Maroons, has decided to step away from the sport immediately to focus on his health and family.
Motor neurone disease is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness and paralysis. There is currently no cure, and treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
Outpouring of Support
The rugby community has rallied around Arrow, with teammates, opponents, and fans expressing their shock and offering support. The NRL and the Rabbitohs have released statements praising Arrow's courage and pledging to assist him in any way possible.
Arrow's retirement marks the end of a career that saw him become one of the most respected forwards in the game. He made his NRL debut in 2016 for the Gold Coast Titans before moving to South Sydney in 2020.
This is a breaking news story. Further updates will follow as more information becomes available.
