In a revelation that has deeply saddened the rugby community, Lewis Moody, the celebrated former England captain and 2003 Rugby World Cup winner, has announced he has been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), commonly known as Motor Neurone Disease (MND). The 47-year-old shared the news, describing it as an "incredibly hard to process and a huge shock" to him and his family, reported The WP Times with reference to Sky News.
Moody, who earned 71 caps for England and represented the British and Irish Lions five times, took to social media to share the difficult news. Despite the diagnosis, he expressed a determinedly positive outlook. "I feel fit and well in myself and I'm focused on staying positive, living life and dealing with the changes I will experience as they come," he wrote. He also extended his gratitude to his family, friends, and the medical professionals supporting him, acknowledging the crucial research helping others live with the disease.
The news brings fresh focus to the potential link between professional rugby and MND, a progressive condition that attacks the nervous system and causes muscle weakness, eventually making it difficult to eat, speak, or breathe. In recent years, the sport has mourned the loss of prominent figures like Doddie Weir and Rob Burrow to the disease, both of whom inspired high-profile fundraising campaigns, particularly championed by England coach Kevin Sinfield. Research, including findings from Durham University, suggests rugby players, especially those with a history of multiple concussions, might be disproportionately susceptible, though the exact cause remains unknown.
Moody, who was awarded an MBE in 2004 for his services to rugby, had already dedicated significant post-retirement time alongside his wife, Annie, to The Lewis Moody Foundation, which fundraises for those affected by brain tumours. Now, he plans to continue that work while creating a new opportunity to support a charity specifically focused on his current situation with MND.
Known affectionately as "Mad Dog" for his fiercely committed style of play, Moody is perhaps most famous for his critical role in the 2003 World Cup final, securing the match-winning lineout that set up Jonny Wilkinson's iconic drop goal. His former club, Leicester Tigers, where he made 223 appearances, expressed their deep sadness, calling him "one of our greatest players." Fellow former teammates Geordan Murphy and Leon Lloyd have already launched an online fundraiser to assist Moody and his family during this challenging time, quickly raising tens of thousands of pounds.
As he navigates this new chapter, Moody is requesting space for himself, his wife, and his sons, but reassured well-wishers that he will "continue to embrace life and grasp opportunities in the same way I always have."
Read about the life of Westminster and Pimlico district, London and the world. 24/7 news with fresh and useful updates on culture, business, technology and city life: President Zelensky Meets Princess Anne in Kyiv: Key UK Royal Visit to Ukraine Since Independence.