The wife of former England rugby star Tom Youngs, Tiffany, has died aged 35 after her fight with cancer.
Youngs’ former club Leicester Tigers confirmed the tragic news on Wednesday.
A statement read: “Leicester Tigers are deeply saddened by the news that Tiffany Youngs has passed away after her heroic battle with illness.
“On behalf of everybody at the club, we send our condolences to the Youngs and Sands families.”
They added: “The club will be providing no further details and asks that the Youngs and Sands families have their privacy respected at this time.”
In 2014, Tiffany Youngs was diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma—a form of blood cancer— and fought the disease for three years before being told the illness was terminal.
She said on her own website after her diagnosis: “I was given between four weeks to under a year to live. I had to tell all of my family, friends but most importantly my precious little girl. This was by far the hardest thing I have ever had to do.”
After appearing for Leicester in the club’s 2021-22 pre-season fixtures, Tom Youngs took indefinite leave from the game to care for his wife Tiffany and has not featured during the current campaign.
“Most of all, I want to thank my family for all that they have done to help me achieve what I have been able to do throughout my career,” Youngs added.
“My mum, my dad, my brother and all of my extended family, I am so lucky to have them. Finally, to my wife Tiff and daughter Maisie, I am lucky to have you alongside me and would not be where I am without you. Thank you both.”
The rugby world united in sharing their condolences to the family after the news was announced.
The official Ulster account tweeted: “We are so sorry to hear this news. Sending our heartfelt condolences to the Youngs and Sands families, Tiffany’s friends and all at Leicester Tigers at this time.”
Birmingham Moseley Rugby added: “Sad news. Condolences to Tom, family and friends.”
Chippenham RFC posted: “Rest in peace, Tiffany.”
Alongside a green heart emoji, London Irish wrote: “Our love and thoughts are with the Youngs and Sands families.”
Wasps echoed the sentiment with the words: “Condolences to the Youngs and Sands families, love from all at Wasps.”
Tom Youngs called time on his rugby career after more than 200 appearances for Leicester and 28 Test caps for England in April.
He announced at the time:“I am so grateful to all of the team-mates that have helped me along the way, coaches who have taught me so much and fans who have been there for me, cheering us on.”
“I had always planned around this season being my last and I am comfortable with the timing of it now.
“I have no regrets and, looking back, am proud of what I have achieved at the only club I ever wanted to play for.”
