RIP: Shock at death of legend Lomu
Tributes immediately started pouring in for "a legend of the game".
Lomu had for decades battled the kidney disease that ended his playing career, but close acquaintances said his death still came as a shock.
He passed away suddenly at his Auckland home, family spokesman John Mayhew said.
"It was totally unexpected, Jonah and his family arrived back from the UK last [Tuesday] night and he suddenly died this [Wednesday] morning," Mayhew told TV3.
Mayhew, a former medic with the All Blacks, revealed Lomu's family were "going through a terrible time" before he broke down in tears.
New Zealand Rugby Union Chief Executive Steve Tew said: "We're all shocked and deeply saddened at the sudden death of Jonah Lomu. Jonah was a legend of our game and loved by his many fans both here and around the world."
New Zealand Prime Minister John Key also paid tribute, saying: "The thoughts of the entire country are with his family."
"[He] was a game changer whenever he stepped onto the field," he added.
Lomu played 63 Tests on the wing for New Zealand from 1995 to 2002, scoring 37 tries.
He rose to stardom at the 1995 World Cup, creating a new template for wings which combined the speed of a backline player with the raw power of a forward.
Lomu scored seven tries in four matches at the tournament, including four in the semifinal against England.
At his peak, the 1.96 metre Lomu weighed 120 kilograms and could cover 100 metres in 10.8 seconds.
Lomu was diagnosed in late 1995 with the rare kidney disorder nephrotic syndrome, which eventually cut short his international career.
He was inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame in 2011, with rugby's governing body saying he had left an indelible mark on the World Cup.
World Rugby chairman Bernard Lapasset said in a 2013 documentary that Lomu revolutionised the sport at a key juncture when the game was turning professional.
"He was rugby's first professional star at a time when the sport needed media coverage and recognition from sponsors," he said.
"The conjunction of the way rugby was going pro and the way Jonah Lomu exploded on the scene was perfect for the game's future."
Former Wallaby Tim Horan said Lomu's status in the game never went to his head and he was the first to walk into the dressing room to shake an opponent's hand.
"It's a very big hole that he's left in the game," Horan told Fox Sports.
Lomu remained one of the world's most recognised and adored rugby players even 13 years after his retirement.
"He was one of those rare superstar players that transcended rugby," South Africa, New Zealand and Australia Rugby boss Brendan Morris said.
"He quickly became a household name around the world with his power and skill, inspiring a generation of athletes."
Before his death, Lomu had been in Britain for promotional work linked to the recently completed World Cup, won by his beloved All Blacks.
In public appearances he looked healthy, joking with fans and leading a rousing rendition of the haka in London's Covent Garden.
"He looked the best I've seen him in many years… he just had that sparkle and that look of life in his face. I'm totally shocked," Australian great George Gregan said.
SANZAR also paid tribute to Lomu.
Interim Chief Executive, Brendan Morris, said: "Not only was Jonah Lomu a legend of our game, he was one of those rare superstar players that transcended rugby. He quickly became a household name around the world with his power and skill, inspiring a generation of athletes.
"While we mourn the tragic loss of Jonah, we should also take time to remember and celebrate his wonderful career and achievements. Lomu will undoubtedly go down in history as one of the greatest players the game has seen.
"Our heartfelt condolences are extended to the Lomu family and New Zealand Rugby as another legend is taken far too soon. Rest in peace."
The Australian Rugby Union joined the chorus of tributes to the legend.
Australian Rugby Union CEO Bill Pulver extended condolences to the NZRU, and family and friends of Lomu.
"I speak on behalf of the entire Australian Rugby community in expressing our deep sadness today after the passing of one of our game's greatest ever players," said Pulver.
"There will never be another Jonah Lomu. He was Rugby's first genuine superstar and as well as being an extraordinary Rugby player he was also an exceptional man who gave everything to the game and his community in Auckland.
"His long battle with health has been well documented and his legend grew even greater as he continued to inspire us all with his fight for life against a rare and crippling disease.
"The ARU wishes to extend its deepest sympathies to the Lomu family, as well as the New Zealand Rugby Union and the many other people in our game who were fortunate to have known the great man.
"Jonah's legacy will live forever in our game, and indeed all over the world."
The South African Rugby Union also extended their condolences to Lomu's family.
"We woke up to the news of Jonah's sudden passing this morning and I speak for the whole South African rugby community when I say we are deeply, deeply shocked and moved by this news," said Oregan Hoskins, President of SARU.
"Jonah was a simply unbelievable player but, as much as he was a mighty All Black, he had a special place in South African hearts because of the connection we made in 1995.
"He was a credit to his country and a world ambassador for the game, loved as much for his humility and generosity of spirit as his playing. His passing leaves a hole in all our rugby lives.
"I would like to pass on the condolences of the South African rugby community to the entire New Zealand rugby community but most particularly to Jonah's family and closest friends."
Lomu is survived by his wife Nadene and sons Brayley and Dhyreille.
Sources: AFP & @rugby365com
