Former Wallaby Nathan Charles has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND). This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing The Guardian.
The 37-year-old, who played four Test matches for Australia, revealed he has been diagnosed with the same disease as retired South Sydney NRL star Jai Arrow, according to AAP. Charles became the first cystic fibrosis sufferer in the world to play a contact sport professionally.
During a Stan Sport interview with former Wallaby turned commentator Justin Harrison, Charles said he had only recently been diagnosed.
"I've only recently been diagnosed," Charles said in the interview.
Nathan Charles is known as the first athlete to overcome the barriers of cystic fibrosis and play professional rugby. His achievement has inspired many people.
Motor neurone disease is a progressive neurological condition. It leads to muscle weakness and impaired motor function. No further details about Charles's condition following the diagnosis have been released.
Jai Arrow is a former star of the South Sydney NRL team. He was also diagnosed with MND. Charles linked his own diagnosis to Arrow's situation, joining the ranks of athletes battling the disease.
The news has been widely discussed in Australia's sports community. The rugby community has expressed support for Charles, praising his courage and spirit.