Lewis Moody, Ex-England Captain, Reveals ALS Diagnosis

Lewis Moody, Rugby World Cup Winner, Reveals ALS Diagnosis

Former English rugby player Lewis Moody, a World Cup champion, has been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a degenerative disease that affects motor neurons. Moody, 47, shared the news in an interview, revealing the emotional impact of the diagnosis.

“There’s something about looking at the future head-on and not really 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 at the future head-on for now.”

Lewis Moody

Moody was a key figure in England’s 2003 triumph, amassing 71 international matches between 2001 and 2011. He played in all seven matches that led England to win the World Cup in Australia, and in the final against the hosts, he won the line-out that led to Jonny Wilkinson’s goal. In addition to his international success, Moody also participated in tours with the British and Irish Lions in 2005 and at the national level, where he 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 in the field and his commitment to the team. He was a fierce tackler and a standout player in the ruck and maul areas, considered one of the best in the professional era. ALS is a degenerative neurological disease that often shortens life. The symptoms and the speed of development of muscle weakness vary between individuals and currently has no cure. Moody reported that he noticed the first symptoms after feeling weakness in his shoulder during a gym session. After undergoing physiotherapy, scans revealed damage to the nerves in his brain and spinal cord due to ALS. Other former rugby players, such as Doddie Weir and Rob Burrow, have died from this disease in recent years.

“You get this ALS diagnosis and, rightly so, we get very emotional, but it’s so strange because I feel like nothing is happening. I don’t feel sick. I don’t feel bad.”

Lewis Moody

Moody explained that his symptoms are mild, with a small loss of muscle mass in his hand and shoulder, and that he is still able to perform any activity. He expressed his hope that this will continue for as long as possible and thanked the support of his family and the rugby community. In a social media post, Moody stated that although the diagnosis was a “shock,” he is receiving good support from his family and medical professionals. He also expressed his gratitude to those who have contributed to research to support those living with this disease. Moody retired from international rugby in 2011 and from professional play a year later.

The Rugby Football Union (RFU) has expressed its support for Moody and his family, highlighting his brilliance and distinction on the field. The clubs where Moody played, Leicester Tigers and Bath Rugby, also offered their support through statements. The rugby community comes together to offer support to Lewis Moody and his family during this difficult time.