South Sydney Rabbitohs and Queensland Maroons forward Jai Arrow has announced his retirement from rugby league after being diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND). The 30-year-old, who played 178 NRL games for the Broncos, Titans and Rabbitohs, as well as 12 State of Origin matches, made the announcement during a club press conference.
Arrow, who was not in a position to speak, released a statement detailing his diagnosis. 'After extensive medical testing and consultations regarding ongoing symptoms, I have recently received a diagnosis relating to a nerve and neurological condition,' he said. 'Further tests, specialist reviews and medical processes are still ongoing.'
The veteran forward, named Souths' player of the year in 2024 after playing every game, has not played this season. 'Over recent months, my symptoms have affected different parts of my everyday life,' Arrow said. 'On medical advice, I am not currently medically cleared to train or play at the required level.'
Arrow thanked the club, teammates and family for their support. 'What I need right now isn't sympathy or sadness. What I need is support, understanding, and privacy,' he said. Rabbitohs chief executive Blake Solly confirmed Arrow, his wife Berina and daughter Ayla remain part of the club family.
