Rugby mourns the death of JPR Williams at 74
Rugby paid tribute to one of the sport's greatest ever players after former Wales and British and Irish Lions full-back JPR Williams died at the age of 74 on Monday. A three-time Five Nations Grand Slam winner with his country, he also boasted an unbeaten record in eight Tests as a Lion in historic triumphant tours to New Zealand in 1971 and 1974 in South Africa. He later went on to become a surgeon and served as Bridgend's club president until his passing. "Bridgend Ravens are devastated to announce the passing of JPR Williams," his former club said in a statement. "One of Bridgend's most-decorated players and an icon of world rugby, JPR served the club most recently as club president. Our thoughts are with JPR's family and friends at this sad time." Williams made his Wales debut against Scotland in 1969, with the last of his 55 international caps coming against the same opponents at Murrayfield 12 years later. A star performer during Welsh rugby's 1970s golden era, he was a fearless defender in addition to his attacking panache. He scored the decisive drop goal that secured the Lions only ever series triumph over the All Blacks in 1971. Williams was equally as prominent on the unbeaten 1974 South Africa tour, which the Lions took with three wins and a draw. World Rugby posted on X: "One of the greatest players the game has ever seen. JPR Williams leaves behind an incredible legacy. All our thoughts are with his family and friends." (AFP)