Lewis Moody Diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease: A Rugby Legend's Brave Fight

Former England Rugby Captain Lewis Moody reveals MND diagnosis

The rugby world is in shock as Lewis Moody announces his MND diagnosis. Former England rugby captain Lewis Moody has revealed he has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND). 

“This has been incredibly hard to process and a huge shock to me and my family...”

Lewis Moody, the former England rugby captain and pivotal member of the 2003 Rugby World Cup-winning team, has revealed that he has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND). The 47-year-old former flanker shared the emotional news on Monday, expressing the difficulty he faced in processing the diagnosis.

Moody described the diagnosis as a “huge shock” to him and his family, stating that it has been “incredibly hard to process.” Despite the challenges ahead, he emphasized his determination to stay positive, focusing on his health, family, and raising awareness for MND research. Moody noticed symptoms of muscle weakness in his shoulder after a gym session, which led to scans revealing nerve damage associated with MND.

Sharing some news ❤️ pic.twitter.com/9YIMucQh6l

— Lewis Moody (@LewisMoody7) October 6, 2025

Moody mentioned that telling his family about the diagnosis was particularly tough, especially breaking the news to his two teenage sons, Dylan and Ethan. He described the moment as “pretty heartbreaking,” but found solace in the support of his loved ones. His wife, Annie, and sons will be crucial in his journey as he navigates this new reality.

Despite the diagnosis, Moody plans to continue his charity work, particularly with his foundation, which focuses on supporting those affected by brain tumors. He's also exploring opportunities to support MND-related causes, aiming to make a positive impact while dealing with his condition. Moody's message to fans and supporters is one of gratitude, asking for space to process his diagnosis while remaining committed to embracing life's opportunities.

“I'm writing to share some tough news,” he said in a statement.

“I have recently been diagnosed with ALS, also known as Motor Neurone Disease (MND).

“This has been incredibly hard to process and a huge shock to me and my family.

“I feel fit and well in myself and I'm focused on staying positive, living life and dealing with the changes I will experience as they come.”

Understanding Motor Neurone Disease

MND is a progressive neurological disorder that affects motor neurons, leading to muscle weakness, stiffness, and wasting. There is currently no cure, but treatments can help manage symptoms and slow disease progression. The prognosis varies, with some patients living up to several years or even decades after diagnosis, as seen in the case of renowned physicist Stephen Hawking.

Lewis Moody opened up about his diagnosis with motor neurone disease (MND), a progressive neurological disorder. Speaking alongside his wife Annie on the BBC, Moody shared the emotional news, expressing his determination to stay positive despite the challenges ahead. The 47-year-old former flanker, who won 71 caps for England, revealed that he had been diagnosed two weeks prior to the interview and had been processing the news with his family.

Moody described the diagnosis as “strange” since he feels like nothing's wrong, despite knowing the implications of the disease. “You're given this diagnosis of MND, and we're rightly quite emotional about it, but it's so strange because I feel like nothing's wrong,” he said. “I don't feel ill, I don't feel unwell. My symptoms are very minor. I have a bit of muscle wasting in the hand and the shoulder.” Moody's wife Annie has been a pillar of strength, supporting him through this difficult time.

Moody revealed that telling his sons, Dylan and Ethan, about his diagnosis was the hardest thing he'd ever had to do. The family sat on the couch in tears, with their dog providing some comfort by licking away their tears. Moody's priority now is to spend quality time with his loved ones and make the most of the time he has. “As Annie said, we've been really lucky that the only real decision I made when I retired from playing was to spend as much time with the kids as possible. We don't get those years back,” he emphasized.

Former England captain Lewis Moody has revealed he's been diagnosed with motor neurone disease. pic.twitter.com/ktascf6dzq

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) October 6, 2025

The rugby community has rallied around Moody, with former teammates and players offering their support. Ed Slater, a former Leicester and Gloucester second-row, tweeted, “Absolutely devastated for Lewis, Annie, and the boys. We will be here for you as and when you need.” England Rugby also issued a statement, expressing their sadness at Moody's diagnosis and offering support to him and his family.

“I don't feel ill. I don't feel unwell,” he said.

“My symptoms are very minor. I have a bit of muscle wasting in the hand and the shoulder.

“I'm still capable of doing anything and everything. And hopefully that will continue for as long as is possible.”

The disease worsens over time, typically progressing over a few months or years, and currently has no cure. MND affects individuals differently, with some experiencing rapid progression while others may live with the disease for an extended period.

Lewis Moody's revelation about his MND diagnosis has sparked an outpouring of sympathy and support from the sports world. Former teammates, players, and fans have taken to social media to express their best wishes and offer support to Moody and his family. The rugby community has rallied around him, with many paying tribute to his achievements on and off the pitch.

“We are all deeply saddened and distressed to learn that Lewis Moody has been diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease,” Rugby Football Union CEO Bill Sweeney said in a statement.

“Lewis represented England, the British and Irish Lions and his clubs Leicester Tigers and Bath Rugby with both brilliance and distinction - one of the toughest and most fearless players ever to don a backrow shirt in the game, earning the respect and admiration of teammates, opponents, and supporters alike all over the world.

“His contribution to rugby, both on and off the field, reflects the very best of our sport’s values.

“We are ready to offer practical and emotional support to the Moody family in whatever way is needed and appropriate.”

Leicester Tigers described Lewis Moody as an “instrumental part of a golden era for Tigers.”

“The figures, trophies and awards tell you what an incredible player Lewis was, but that is only half the story,” said Tigers Chief Executive Andrea Pinchen in a club statement.

“As an individual, his commitment to his club along with his warmth and passion shone through, which endeared him to teammates, staff and supporters alike.

“Always looking to help others, Lewis together with Annie have worked tirelessly through the Lewis Moody Foundation, supporting research into brain tumours and helping affected families.”

Lewis Moody's diagnosis with motor neurone disease (MND) comes as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of this condition on individuals and families. Fellow rugby players Doddie Weir and Rob Burrow have sadly passed away after battling MND.

Doddie Weir: The Scottish rugby union player, who won 61 caps for Scotland, passed away on November 26, 2022, at the age of 52. Weir's foundation, “My Name's Doddie,” has raised millions for MND research and support.

Rob Burrow: The Leeds Rhinos legend died on June 2, 2024, at 41, after a five-year battle with MND. Burrow's determination and positivity inspired many, and his family has continued his fundraising efforts, including opening a center for MND patients.

Both Weir and Burrow demonstrated remarkable courage and resilience in the face of adversity, using their platforms to raise awareness and funds for MND research and support. Their legacies continue to inspire others, and their contributions to the fight against MND will not be forgotten.

Here's a more detailed look at his achievements:

Career Highlights

• England Caps: 71 appearances for England, including 12 times as captain
• British and Irish Lions: Three Test caps and a tour to New Zealand in 2005
• Leicester Tigers: 223 appearances and numerous trophies, including seven Premiership and two European Cup titles

Legacy: Moody's commitment to the club and his warmth and passion endeared him to teammates, staff, and supporters alike. He and his wife Annie have also worked tirelessly through the Lewis Moody Foundation, supporting research into brain tumors and helping affected families.

Tributes: Leicester Tigers' Chief Executive, Andrea Pinchen, praised Moody's commitment and warmth, saying everyone connected with the club wants to pass on their best wishes and support to Lewis and his family.