Jai Arrow Announces Immediate Retirement Due to MND Diagnosis
South Sydney Rabbitohs forward Jai Arrow has declared his immediate retirement from professional rugby league after being diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND).
At 30 years old, Arrow has played a total of 178 National Rugby League (NRL) matches throughout a decade-long career, representing the Brisbane Broncos, Gold Coast Titans, and South Sydney Rabbitohs. Additionally, he has made 12 State of Origin appearances for Queensland.
During a club press conference held on Wednesday, Arrow was visibly emotional and unable to speak; however, a written statement from him was read aloud.
"After extensive medical testing and consultations regarding ongoing symptoms, I have recently received a diagnosis relating to a nerve and neurological condition," Arrow stated.
"Further tests, specialist reviews and medical processes are still ongoing, and my doctors are continuing to assess my condition.
"On medical advice, I am not currently medically cleared to train or play at the required level, and I will be stepping away from those duties while I focus fully on my health, treatment, and rehabilitation."
Understanding Motor Neurone Disease
Motor Neurone Disease is a progressive condition affecting the nerves in the brain and spinal cord responsible for muscle control. Over time, it causes muscle weakening and stiffness, impacting functions such as walking, talking, eating, and breathing.
The exact cause of MND remains unknown, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic factors inherited from parents and other lifestyle influences.
Notable Figures Affected by MND
The rugby league and union communities have been impacted by MND in recent years. Former Queensland player Carl Webb passed away from MND at age 42 in 2023. Former England rugby league half-back Rob Burrow died in 2024, five years after his diagnosis.
In rugby union, former Scotland international Doddie Weir died in November 2022, and World Cup-winning former England international Lewis Moody was diagnosed in September 2025.
Arrow’s Message and Support
"Thank you for the support I've received over what has been an incredibly difficult and uncertain period in my life," Arrow expressed.
"Over recent months, my symptoms have affected different parts of my everyday life.
"I want to sincerely thank everyone at the South Sydney Rabbitohs for the personal support they have shown me and my family throughout this process.
"The South Sydney Rabbitohs, my team-mates, staff, and everyone behind the scenes have made an incredibly hard situation much easier to face.
"What I need right now isn't sympathy or sadness. What I need is support, understanding and privacy while my family and I navigate this difficult time.
"This is only part of my story, and when the time is right, I'll share more. But for now, I ask everyone to respect my privacy while I continue working with my doctors and my family."
Career Highlights and Club Statement
Arrow began his NRL career in 2016 with the Brisbane Broncos before transferring to the Gold Coast Titans in 2018. He joined the South Sydney Rabbitohs in 2021, making 98 NRL appearances for the club.
Rabbitohs CEO Blake Solly commented on Arrow's situation:
"We all know how difficult the past few months have been for Jai, but we also know that he will fight this illness with the same bravery, passion and character that was the hallmark of his playing career."
"Jai and his family will always be Rabbitohs and they will be part of this club for many years to come."
Additional Information
Arrow has not played for the Rabbitohs since September. His diagnosis and retirement mark a significant moment for the rugby league community as they rally in support of the player and his family during this challenging time.
