Lewis Moody, English rugby legend, reveals ALS diagnosis

Lewis Moody, Rugby World Cup Winner, Reveals Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Diagnosis

Former English rugby player and World Cup champion Lewis Moody has been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as motor neuron disease (MND). Moody, 47, shared the news in an interview, revealing the emotional impact the diagnosis has had on his life.

“There’s something about looking the future in the face and not really wanting to process it at the moment… There’s absolutely a reticence to look the future in the face for now.”

Lewis Moody

Moody was a key player in England’s triumph in 2003, and played 71 international matches between 2001 and 2011. He participated in all seven World Cup matches in Australia, and in the final against the host country, he won the line-out that led to Jonny Wilkinson’s winning drop goal. In addition to his international success, Moody won seven Premiership titles with the Leicester Tigers and two Heineken Cups. He finished his career at Bath.

During his career, Moody was known for his tireless work and his commitment to the team. He was a ferocious tackler and a standout player in the ruck and maul areas, considered one of the best players of the professional era. ALS is a degenerative neurological disease that generally shortens life. Symptoms and the rate of development of muscle weakness vary among individuals, and there is currently no cure. Moody reported that the first symptoms appeared as weakness in the shoulder during a training session. After physiotherapy, scans revealed damage to the nerves of the brain and spinal cord due to ALS. In recent years, other rugby players such as Doddie Weir and Rob Burrow have died from this disease.

“They give you this ALS diagnosis and, rightly so, we get very emotional, but it’s so strange because I feel like nothing is happening,” Moody said.

Lewis Moody

Moody also expressed his gratitude for the support of the rugby community and his family. In addition, he was grateful to those who have contributed to research to support people living with this disease. In his social media message, Moody stated that, although the diagnosis was a “shock”, he is receiving good support from his family and medical professionals.

The Rugby Football Union (RFU) has expressed its support for Moody and his family, highlighting his brilliance and distinction on the field. Bill Sweeney, RFU chief executive, stated that the rugby community joins Moody and his family in this difficult time. Former Moody clubs, Leicester Tigers and Bath Rugby, have also offered their support. Andrea Pinchin, Leicester Tigers CEO, praised Moody’s commitment and passion, while Tarquin McDonald, Bath Rugby CEO, described him as part of the club’s family and an ambassador for the sport.