Tributes flock in as rugby league great Rob Burrow dies from motor neurone disease

Prince William and former teammate Kevin Sinfield led the tributes to rugby league great Rob Burrow, who died on Sunday from motor neurone disease, aged 41.

A diminutive scrumhalf at just 5ft 5in (1.65m) tall, Burrow won eight Super League championships, three World Club Challenge titles and two Challenge Cups during a legendary career with Leeds Rhinos.

The England and Great Britain international retired in 2017 after 16 years at Leeds and more than 400 appearances, but two years later was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND).

He is survived by wife Lindsey and children Macy, Maya and Jackson.

In a personally signed message on social media, Prince William said: "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."

A legend of Rugby League, Rob Burrow had a huge heart. 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

He also lauded Burrow's "phenomenal" efforts in raising more than £15 million ($19 million) to help build a new MND care centre.

After being diagnosed, Burrow dedicated himself to raising funds and awareness for MND with the support of close friend and former Leeds team-mate Kevin Sinfield.

"Today was the day that I hoped would never come," said Sinfield, who is now the England rugby union team's skills and kicking coach.

'Bravest man I ever met'

"The world has lost a great man and a wonderful friend to so, so many.

"You will continue to inspire me every single day... you were the toughest and bravest man I have ever met.

"I will miss you my little mate."

Leeds had revealed Burrows' death Sunday in a club statement: "It is with deep sadness that