NRL star Jai Arrow retires

NRL star Jai Arrow has been forced into immediate retirement at age 30 after being diagnosed with motor neurone disease.

The South Sydney Rabbitohs forward revealed the condition has already begun to affect his speech.

The rugby league community has rallied around Arrow, with former teammate Tom Burgess calling for a 'Try For Jai' fundraising initiative to support MND research.

Queensland coach Billy Slater has also invited Arrow into the Maroons' Origin camp to provide emotional support during this difficult transition.

Arrow's diagnosis has reignited a national conversation about the long-term health risks associated with professional contact sports.