Rob Burrow: Rugby league and union fans pay tribute to former player who died of motor neurone disease
The players from each team in the Challenge Cup final stood side by side on the grass at Wembley Stadium while the audience cheered loudly. They were all connected by the name and number printed on the back of their shirts which read Burrow, 7.
During an important day in the rugby league schedule, supporters honored a surprising standout athlete of the sport... petite, speedy, and strong, who embodies the Leeds Rhinos team.
However, neither of the squads hailed from Leeds.
However, instead of focusing on the game, Warrington Wolves and Wigan Warriors took a moment to honor Rob Burrow, who had accomplished a lot both in and out of the field. The match began after a minute of silence, which was scheduled for 3.07pm as a tribute to Burrow.
After seven minutes passed, the audience cheered with enthusiasm when a photograph of Burrow raising the Challenge Cup for the Leeds Rhinos at Wembley Stadium in 2015 appeared on the screens.
In 2019, Burrow was found to have motor neurone disease, which came two years after he left his career in sports.
He passed away on Sunday, at the young age of 41.
It became his goal to increase knowledge about the damaging ailment that took away his physical autonomy and generate monetary support for investigation to manage it and eventually find a solution.
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People who love rugby and were present at the match were asked to pay their respects to the Rugby League Legends statue located in the stadium.
The diverse range of hues displayed in the scarves, shirts, and flags demonstrated that the people leaving items in honor of Burrow belonged to various teams.
Dennis McQuillan, along with his offspring Charlie and Archie, who support Warrington Wolves, were present to honor someone.
Dennis expressed that the passing of Rob has left a great impact and the rugby league community has united during this difficult time.
"I'm amazed by their accomplishments, and I feel honored to be able to commemorate him."
Discover more: Fellow team member Kevin Sinfield honors his amazing mate "The greatest of all": Rob Burrow's spouse expresses heartfelt tribute
This tradition goes beyond the disparities between the two variations of the sport... Even supporters in Twickenham from all over London join in and give an ovation at the seven-minute hurdle during the rugby union's Premiership final.
At Wembley, it wasn't only the male individuals paying tribute to the rugby icon.
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The first game was played by women - Leeds Rhinos lost against St. Helen's. Both teams were seen wearing a shirt that had a message from Rob, stating that we should continue to dream even when we face challenges in life.
The vision of finding a remedy for this terrible illness persists, as his loved ones and acquaintances carry forward his legacy.
