'Miracle': Sonny Bill Williams reveals he had open heart surgery
Former All Blacks rugby star Sonny Bill Williams has successfully undergone open-heart surgery to correct a congenital defect. He is now advocating for routine heart screenings to prevent sudden cardiac events in athletes.
Why it matters
It highlights the importance of proactive health screenings for professional athletes and raises awareness about hidden congenital heart conditions.
<p>Former All Black Sonny Bill Williams says he has had successful open-heart surgery.</p> <p>In a long video documenting the health issue on his YouTube channel, the 41-year-old Williams said he discovered he had been born with a heart defect after going for a routine checkup following a neck operation.</p> <p>In footage taken after heart surgery, Williams said it was a success and that he was making it his “mission” to raise awareness of the need to take heart checks.</p> <p>Williams started out as a rugby league player, becoming a superstar in the 13-man code, before switching to 15-man rugby union and winning the World Cup twice with the All Blacks, in…
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