Princess Kate and Prince William have “sent their love” in an emotional statement following a rugby star’s death.

The Prince and Princess of Wales took to social media to honour the memory of Rob Burrow, an English professional rugby league footballer who died on Sunday, four and a half years after his motor neurone disease diagnosis.

The former Leeds player was 41 years old and was awarded a CBE by Prince William in January earlier this year.

The Waleses’ social media accounts issued the following statement: “A legend of Rugby League, Rob Burrow had a huge heart.

“He taught us, ‘in a world full of adversity, we must dare to dream.’

“Catherine and I send our love to Lindsey, Jackson, Maya and Macy. W.”

In January, Prince William travelled to Leeds to give Rob his CBE, alongside his wife, his three children, and Kevin Sinfield.

The former rugby league star worked tirelessly to raise awareness for motor neurone disease.

Leeds Rhinos, the club where Burrow spent his entire career and won eight Super League titles, said the former player died at Pinderfield’s Hospital near his home surrounded by his loving family after becoming ill earlier this week.

In their statement, Leeds Rhinos said Burrow “won every honour with the club as part of their golden generation”.

The club added: “A hard-working and dedicated player, his fearless performances made him one of the most respected players in the Rhinos ranks.

“Fittingly, as a tribute to the incredible work done by Rob, the ground-breaking of the new Rob Burrow Centre for MND at Seacroft Hospital on Monday will go ahead as planned at Rob’s request.

​”Well-wishers who wish to pay their respects to Rob can do so in the South Stand at Rob’s beloved Headingley Stadium, with the gates open from Sunday evening for visitors to come.”

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak called Burrow an “inspiration to everyone who met him or who heard his incredible story”.

He added: “I was honoured to spend some time with him last year. He drove a fundraising campaign that supports vital new research improving the care for others – not least through the creation of The Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease in Leeds.

“He leaves behind an amazing legacy and my thoughts are with his friends and family.”