UPDATE Friday Nov. 20, 4:36 p.m. AEST: Former All Blacks coach John Hart reveals that Jonah Lomu died from a cardiac arrest related to his kidney condition, the Sydney Morning Herald reports.
New Zealand rugby union legend Jonah Lomu has passed away unexpectedly Wednesday morning in Auckland, aged 40.
Former All Blacks team doctor John Mayhew confirmed to New Zealand TV station 3News: "On behalf of the Lomu family, I can confirm that Jonah Lomu died this morning, most probably about 8 or 9 this morning."
"The family have requested privacy at this stage, they are obviously going through a terrible time."
NZ Rugby CEO, Steve Tew, also confirmed the news on the All Blacks Twitter account this morning.
"We're all shocked and deeply saddened at the sudden death of Jonah Lomu. We're lost for words and our heartfelt sympathies go out to Jonah's family. Jonah was a legend of our game and loved by his many fans both here and around the world."
Lomu fought kidney disorders since the end of 1995, after being diagnosed with nephritic syndrome, which cut short his 63 test All Blacks career. He received a kidney transplant in 2004. It is unknown what caused his death.
The first global star of 'the game they play in heaven'
Regarded as the game's first global superstar, Lomu had just returned after being in the United Kingdom for the Rugby World Cup as a spokesman for beer company Heineken, according to New Zealand's 3News.
He had told the Daily Mail in August 2015 that he wanted stay alive to see his kids reach the age of 21, detailing his long battle with kidney problems.
@AllBlacks #rugby legend Jonah Lomu at Auckland Airport with 8 large suite cases. Man loves to shop! pic.twitter.com/qweiMRuF2y— Craig Norenbergs (@CraigNorenbergs) November 17, 2015
Described as a "freight train in ballet shoes," Lomu was an effective winger for the All Blacks, scoring 37 tries in 63 appearances, standing as the 5th highest try scorer for New Zealand.
He played for Super Rugby New Zealand teams the Hurricanes, Chiefs and the Blues, before officially retiring in 2007. Lomu however made a minor comeback to senior rugby, making three appearances for French semi-professional side Marseille Vitrolles in November 2009.
His arguably most famous moment, is this stunning run over the top of England fullback Mike Catt at the 1995 Rugby World Cup in South Africa.
Tributes for Lomu
Friends, All Blacks, former competition, the New Zealand Prime Minister and sporting personalities have all paid their tributes to the legendary player.
I still can't believe the sad news. Love & thoughts go out to Jonahs family #RIPJonah— Dan Carter (@DanCarter) November 18, 2015
Shocked, thoughts are with the Lomu family right now ❤️❤️— Sonny Bill Williams (@SonnyBWilliams) November 18, 2015
I am so, so devastated to hear of the passing away of @JONAHTALILOMU The greatest superstar and just a fabulous human being. Deeply saddened— Jonny Wilkinson (@JonnyWilkinson) November 18, 2015
Deeply saddened to hear of Jonah Lomu’s unexpected passing this morning. The thoughts of the entire country are with his family.— John Key (@johnkeypm) November 18, 2015
Thoughts and pray for the family of Jonah Lomu, a big hug from Cafu. A terrific athlete and champion. Rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/B8i9XVKURK— Cafu. (@officialcafu) November 18, 2015