‘What I need isn’t sympathy or sadness’: Jai Arrow announces heartbreaking retirement after MND diagnosis

South Sydney Rabbitohs and former Queensland Maroons forward Jai Arrow has announced his immediate retirement from rugby league at the age of 30 after being diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND).

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One of the most respected figures in the game, Arrow played 178 NRL games after debuting with the Brisbane Broncos in 2016 and represented Queensland in 12 State of Origin matches between 2018-23.

“What I need right now isn’t sympathy or sadness,” Arrow said in a statement via the Rabbitohs. 

“What I need is support, understanding, and privacy while my family and I navigate this difficult time.”

Thanking his club and the wider rugby league community for their support, Arrow explained he had undergone extensive medical testing and consultations regarding ongoing symptoms which revealed a diagnosis relating to a nerve and neurological condition. 

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“Over recent months, my symptoms have affected different parts of my everyday life,” he said.

“On medical advice, I am not currently medically cleared to train or play at the required level, and I will be stepping away from those duties while I focus fully on my health, treatment, and rehabilitation.

“I know the road ahead won’t be easy, but anyone who knows me knows I’m competitive, stubborn, and ready to fight this with everything I’ve got.

“This is only part of my story, and when the time is right, I’ll share more. But for now, I ask everyone to respect my privacy while I continue working with my doctors and my family.”

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