Wales rugby legend JPR Williams dies as tributes pour in
Wales rugby legend JPR Williams dies as tributes pour in
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Wales and British & Irish Lions rugby legend JPR Williams has died at the age of 74.
Williams was part of the golden era of Welsh rugby in the 1970s, winning three Grand Slams and six Triple Crowns.
The former Wales captain featured on victorious Lions tours to New Zealand in 1971 and 1974 in South Africa, earning eight caps.
Williams helped the Lions record their only series win against the All Blacks after dropping a goal in the fourth test.
Welsh captain Phil Bennett (on ground) holds up England as JPR Williams gets the ball away for Wales
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The hard-nosed full-back, who was known for his sideburns and wearing his socks around his ankles, also played for Bridgend and London Welsh.
Williams first pulled on the red Welsh jersey against Scotland in 1969, with his final international appearance coming against the same opponents at Murrayfield 12 years later.
Paying tribute to the 55-capped Welsh legend, Bridgend Ravens said: "Bridgend Ravens are devastated to announce the passing of JPR Williams."
"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."
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London Welsh added: “All at London Welsh RFC are deeply saddened by the news this evening that rugby legend JPR Williams has passed away."
“Our thoughts and condolences go out to his friends, colleagues and family. A huge loss to all who knew and loved him.”
The British & Irish Lions also said: "One of the greatest ever Lions. A man who inspired so many. It is with huge sadness to learn that JPR Williams has passed away at the age of 74. All our thoughts are with his family and friends. Rest in Peace."
The Welsh Rugby Union added: "The world of rugby has lost one of its greatest players of all time."
Williams, who worked as an orthopaedic surgeon off the pitch, famously played England 11 times and never lost.
Welsh captain Phil Bennett (on ground) holds up England as JPR Williams gets the ball away for Wales
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He only retired from rugby in 2003, playing for Tondu well into his fifties.
Williams, who was involved in the Barbarians victory over the All Blacks in 1973, was married to wife Scilla and lived in the Vale of Glamorgan.
The couple had four children. He was appointed an MBE in 1977 for services to rugby and became an inaugural inductee in the International Rugby Hall of Fame in 1997.
Williams, born in Bridgend to two GPs in 1949, was also a talented tennis played and won a British junior title at Wimbledon in 1966.
The triple crown winning Wales squad pictured before the Five nations match between France and Wales at Parc de Princes
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He pursued his career in medicine while playing for Wales, qualifying as a physician in 1973.
Speaking about his mixing work and rugby, he told WalesOnline in 2009: "I was happy with my career as a surgeon and happy with my experiences in rugby.
"I was lucky to play for Wales when I did. I was surrounded by great players, who undoubtedly helped me become the player I was. And I enjoyed my club rugby, too."
A number of the 1970s Welsh side have passed away in recent years, including Llanelli legend Phil Bennett in 2022.