The Sporting World Reacts to News of All Blacks Legend Jonah Lomu's Sudden Death

The rugby world was in mourning on Wednesday following news that former New Zealand wing Jonah Lomu had passed away in Auckland, aged 40.

Former international team doctor and friend John Mayhew confirmed that Lomu, who suffered from a kidney disorder throughout his career, died of cardiac arrest, per the New Zealand Herald.

The All Blacks great represented his country 63 times, scoring 37 tries in an eight-year international career.

The outpouring of grief on Twitter was overwhelming, and his former New Zealand team-mates were quick to pay their respects to the man.

Lomu inspired a generation of rugby players, including many of the 2011 and 2015 All Blacks, who made history by winning back-to-back Rugby World Cups.

"

Total shock and sadness  #Lomu #Rip

— Aaron Smith (@A_Smith09) November 18, 2015"

Lomu was rugby union's first international superstar; his influence spread well over international borders.

The rest of the rugby world solemnly paid tribute to the wing, who made his All Blacks debut aged just 19 years and 45 days.

Lomu was widely regarded as a man who changed rugby forever, cited as one of the players who truly transcended the game.

The tributes came from all over the world and from all different backgrounds.

New Zealand's Prime Minister was among those who tweeted a message following the news.

Most chose to remember the Auckland-born Lomu at his devastating best.

His finest performance came in the 1995 World Cup semi-final in Cape Town against England, where he scored four tries in a 45-29 win.

[Twitter]