Tom Hamilton shares his thoughts on Ireland’s 42-21 triumph against England at Twickenham during the Six Nations. (1:03)
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Career Highlights and Achievements
Lewis Moody, the former back-row player for England and Leicester, acknowledged that he understood the risks associated with playing rugby; however, he believes that the fulfillment he gained from his career far surpassed any potential dangers.
Lewis Moody earned 71 international caps for England, represented the British and Irish Lions, and secured both Premiership and European championships with Leicester Tigers.
After retiring, the 47-year-old was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND), an illness that harms the nerves in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness and atrophy.
Understanding Rugby Risks
Although there is no established connection between rugby and MND, several former players have been diagnosed with the condition. Notable cases include ex-Scotland international Doddie Weir and former rugby league athlete Rob Burrow, both of whom succumbed to MND.
Lewis Moody acknowledged that he understood the dangers associated with his rugby profession. Image by Bob Bradford – CameraSport via Getty Images.
"I certainly recognized the dangers that rugby posed, especially when you repeatedly collide with another person week after week, day after day," Moody shared with the BBC in a recent documentary — Ben Youngs Investigates: How Safe Is Rugby?
Life After Retirement
"I was fully conscious of the dangers associated with injuries and concussions, yet I felt that the excitement and fulfillment of participating in the sport far surpassed any concerns I had.
"I found such joy in what I did that I was willing to endure that, and I would do it all over again. I cherished it… I truly cherished it."
Research indicates that reduced oxygen levels during high-intensity workouts can harm motor neuron cells. Patients may develop MND due to a combination of genetic predispositions and environmental influences.
Battling Motor Neurone Disease
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Although there is no substantial evidence connecting motor neuron disease (MND) to rugby as a sport, the numerous prominent cases among former players have caused the public to link the two.
"I remain unfazed by it," stated Moody.
"It’s a common misconception that having a few well-known rugby players diagnosed with MND implies that playing rugby increases the risk of developing MND. However, that is not accurate.
"The sole connection between MND and sports lies in extreme physical effort. Numerous research studies discuss these links. "When you consult with the scientists or medical professionals in this field, they will tell you that there are various factors contributing to MND. It's not a singular cause."
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