Leeds Rhinos, the whole rugby league world and the motor neurone disease community are united in grief after the 41-year-old player’s death was announced this evening (Sunday). Burrow was diagnosed with MND five years ago and became a national hero to thousands of fellow sufferers through his efforts to raise awareness and funds to fight the terminal illness, which has no known cure. Before that, he was one of the most admired figures in English rugby, having won eight Super League titles – and the hearts of fans across the sport – during a glittering career from 2001 to 2017. Here, trhe Yorkshire Evening Post pays a pictorial tribute to Burrow featuring some of the most memorable moments of his career, on and off the pitch. Most of these were taken by former YEP snapper Steve Riding who photographed Burrow from his debut to final game.
13. Rob Burrow tribute
Danny McGuire leads the after-match singing following Leeds Rhinos' 2012 Grand Final win as Rob Burrow dances with delight. Photo: Steve Riding
14. Rob Burrow tribute
Rob Burrow scores for Leeds Rhinos in their 50-0 Challenge Cup final win over Hull KR at Wembley in 2015. Photo: Steve Rding
15. Rob Burrow tribute
Rob Burrow with Danny McGuire at Jamie Jones-Buchanan's testimonial game in 2020, when the pair played together at AMT Headingley for the final time. Photo: Steve Riding
16. Rob Burrow tribute
An emotional Rob Burrow, with son Jackson, thanks the sell out crowd at Jamie Jones Testimonial in January, 2020, which doubled as an MND fundraiser. Photo: Steve Riding
17. Rob Burrow tribute
The Leeds Rhinos team bus, featuring a picture of Rob Burrow, outside Wembley Stadium before the 2020 Challenge Cup final when his former side beat Salford Red Devils. Photo: Ed Sykes/SWpix.com
18. Rob Burrow tribute
Leeds Rhinos celebrate with the Super League trophy following their first Grand Final win, against Bradford Bulls in 2004. Rob Burrow is the fifth player from the left on the front row. Photo: Steve Riding