Prince William has paid homage to the "immense heart" of a courageous athlete, Rob Burrow, who passed away at 41.
The Prince of Wales, also 41, added his voice to the chorus of tributes for the rugby legend, who succumbed to Motor Neuron Disease (MND) on Sunday. Burrow had been diagnosed in December 2019, just two years after retiring from a stellar career with the Leeds Rhinos.
Burrow dedicated his remaining years to advocating for MND research, often partnering with his close friend and fellow rugby star, Kevin Sinfield. In January, Prince William had the honor of presenting CBE awards to both Burrow and Sinfield, bestowed by King Charles in the New Year’s Honours.
Following the news of Burrow's passing, William conveyed a heartfelt message through his and Kate Middleton's shared social media accounts, extending his condolences to Burrow's wife Lindsey and their three children.
"A legend of Rugby League, Rob Burrow had a huge heart," William wrote. "He taught us, ‘in a world full of adversity, we must dare to dream.’ Catherine and I send our love to Lindsey, Jackson, Maya, and Macy. W"
Sinfield, who collaborated with Burrow to raise millions for MND research, lauded his friend as a "beacon of hope and inspiration."
The duo, who played together from 2001 to 2015, were recognized for their charitable contributions with CBEs in the New Year’s Honours. William surprised them with their awards during a visit to Leeds on January 11.
Burrow's diagnosis spurred a monumental fundraising effort, generating an astounding $19 million for MND research. Sinfield, driven by his friend's plight, raised $11 million through extraordinary physical challenges, including running seven marathons in seven days.
In May 2023, Sinfield spearheaded the inaugural Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon. In a poignant moment that captured the spirit of their friendship, Sinfield carried Burrow across the finish line.
After the January visit, William’s team shared photos from the event on social media, stating, "A pleasure to award Rob Burrow and Kevin Sinfield with their CBEs at Headingley today. Thank you both for your incredible efforts in raising awareness and funds for Motor Neurone Disease. Both true heroes of the #MND community and the Rugby Football League."
Later this week, Prince William will represent the U.K. at the commemorations of the 780th anniversary of the D-Day landings in France.
The Quran - Chapter An-Najm : 62
Instead, prostrate to Allah and worship ˹Him alone˺!
فَاسْجُدُوا لِلَّـهِ وَاعْبُدُوا۩ ﴿62﴾ (Now, fall down in prostration and worship [ Allah ]... 53:62). It means that preceding verses have a lesson for everyone who considers them seriously that he should worship Allah and bow down before him in humbleness.
