Jai Arrow: NRL star retires at 30 after MND diagnosis

“Further tests, specialist examinations and medical processes are still ongoing and my doctors continue to evaluate my condition.

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

MND affects nerves in the brain and spinal cord that tell your muscles what to do.

This causes them to weaken and stiffen over time, often affecting the way you walk, talk, eat and breathe.

Scientists aren’t sure what causes MND, but it’s likely to be a combination of genes (or biological traits) you inherit from your parents when you’re born and other lifestyle factors.

Former Queensland player Carl Webb died of MND in 2023, aged 42; Former England rugby league player Rob Burrow died in 2024, five years after diagnosis.

Former Scotland rugby union international Doddie Weir died in November 2022 and World Cup-winning former England international Lewis Moody was diagnosed in September 2025.

“Thank you for the support I have received during an incredibly difficult and uncertain time in my life,” Arrow said.

“In recent months my symptoms have affected different parts of my daily life.

“I would like to sincerely thank everyone at the South Sydney Rabbitohs for their personal support to me and my family throughout this process.

“The South Sydney Rabbitohs, my teammates, the staff and everyone behind the scenes made facing an incredibly difficult situation much easier.

“What I need right now is not sympathy or sadness. What I need is support, understanding and privacy as my family and I get through this difficult time.

“This is just part of my story, and I will share more when the time is right. But for now, I ask everyone to respect my privacy as I continue to work with my doctors and family.”

Arrow made his NRL debut for the Broncos in 2016 and then joined the Titans in 2018. He joined South Sydney in 2021, where he made 98 NRL appearances.

“We all know how difficult the past few months have been for Jai, but we also know that he will battle this disease with the same courage, passion and character that has been the hallmark of his playing career,” Rabbitohs CEO Blake Solly said.

“Jai and his family will always be Rabbis and will be a part of this club for many years to come.”