Lomu loses battle with kidney disease
The legendary All Blacks winger passed away in Auckland on Wednesday, 18 November.
![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/51/2015/11/Jonah-Lomu-009.jpg)
All Black winger Jonah Lomu has passed away, aged 40.
Lomu was a veteran of 73 tests for the All Blacks and scored 43 tries during his international career.
#RIPJonah pic.twitter.com/b72VujMNUG
— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) November 18, 2015
The Tongan native underwent a kidney transplant in 2004 after he was diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome in 1995 but was awaiting another kidney after the organ stopped functioning in 2011.
One of the greatest rugby players to ever play the game. A true legend R.I.P Jonah Lomu #AllBlacks #ALegendHasPassed pic.twitter.com/Xp6h4c2gML
— East Coast Breakfast (@ECRBreakfast) November 18, 2015
He is survived by his wife Nadene and sons Brayley, 6, and Dhyreille, 5.
Considered global rugby’s first true superstar, Lomu was best known for the physicality he brought to the number 11 jersey, often flattening opponents who stood in his way.
Despite not winning a Rugby World Cup, Lomu still stands as the joint-highest try scorer at the tournament, alongside Bryan Habana.
Lomu retired from international rugby in 2007.