Lewis Moody, former England captain, 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). The news was revealed by Moody himself, 47, after receiving the diagnosis two weeks ago.

There’s something about looking the future in the face and not wanting to process that at this moment. It’s not that I don’t understand where it’s going. We understand it. But there’s absolutely a reluctance to look the future in the face for now.

Lewis Moody

Moody was a key player in England’s 2003 triumph and amassed 71 international matches between 2001 and 2011. He played in all seven World Cup matches in Australia, and in the final, he won the line-out that led to Jonny Wilkinson’s winning drop goal. In addition to his international success, Moody participated in the 2005 British and Irish Lions tour and at club level, won seven Premiership titles with the Leicester Tigers and two Heineken Cups, ending his career at Bath. During his career, Moody was known for his tireless work and was considered an exemplary team player. He was a fierce tackler and excelled in the ruck area, being recognized as one of the best players of the professional era.

ALS is a degenerative neurological disease that often shortens life. The specific symptoms and the speed at which muscle weakness develops can vary between individuals. Currently, there is no cure. Moody reported that the first symptoms he noticed were weakness in his shoulder while at the gym. After undergoing physiotherapy, tests revealed damage to the nerves in his brain and spinal cord due to ALS. Previously, former rugby players Doddie Weir and Rob Burrow passed away from this disease.

They give you this ALS diagnosis and we are rightly quite excited about it, but it’s so strange because I feel like nothing is happening.

Lewis Moody

The former player added that, although the symptoms are minor, he hopes this situation will last as long as possible and appreciates the support of the rugby community. In a social media post, Moody expressed that, despite being a “shock”, he has the support of his family and medical professionals. He was also grateful to those who have contributed to research to support people who, like him, live with this disease. Moody retired from international rugby in 2011 and stepped away from the professional game a year later.

The RFU (Rugby Football Union) has announced its support for Moody and his family. RFU CEO Bill Sweeney issued a statement expressing his sadness and dismay at the news, highlighting Moody’s brilliance and distinction on the field and the respect he earned in the rugby community. The RFU is committed to offering practical and emotional support to the Moody family and encourages the community to show their support through fundraising initiatives. Former Moody clubs have also offered their support. Andrea Pinchin, Leicester Tigers chief executive, praised Moody’s dedication to the club and his charitable work. Tarquin McDonald, Bath Rugby chief executive, described the news as “heartbreaking” and affirmed the club’s support for Moody and his family. The rugby community unites in solidarity with Lewis Moody, a true icon of the sport.