The rugby world is mourning the loss of JPR Williams, a former Wales and British and Irish Lions full-back, who has passed away at the age of 74.
Williams, who was born in Bridgend, Wales, was renowned for his aggressive and attacking playing style.
He won 55 caps for Wales and was a key player in the victorious Lions tours to New Zealand in 1971 and South Africa three years later, starting all eight Tests on these tours.
Williams was a legendary figure in the rugby world, regarded as one of the sport’s finest players ever.
He was held in high esteem by fellow Wales greats like Sir Gareth Edwards and Gerald Davies.
He won Grand Slam titles with Wales in 1971, 1976, and 1978, and was also a domestic rugby union star, playing for London Welsh, Tondu, and Natal in South Africa.
Williams was a versatile athlete, also excelling at tennis.
He won the 1966 British Junior title at Wimbledon by beating David Lloyd, who went on to become the Great Britain Davis Cup captain, in straight sets.
Williams was also a qualified orthopaedic surgeon.
However, it is for his rugby exploits that Williams will be most remembered.
He scored a drop goal for the Lions in the fourth Test against New Zealand to secure a 14-14 draw and seal a series victory.
He captained Wales on five occasions and played his final game for his country against Scotland in 1981.
Williams had a long association with Bridgend Rugby Club, serving as both a player and club president.
In a statement, the club expressed its deep sorrow and condolences on his passing.
“JPR’s death has left a huge void at the club, and we extend our heartfelt sympathies to his family and friends at this sad time,” the statement read.
