A 31-year-old pro athlete has suddenly passed away, reportedly suffering a heart attack just before a championship match. 

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Hyron Andrews, a South African rugby star who played for the KZN Sharks and Sale Sharks in England, died on Oct. 16, the South African National Rugby Team (SA Rugby) announced. The organization said that Andrews died at a hotel in La Rochelle, France, "after a fall."

SA Rugby added that the 31-year-old was to compete in a match at the European Champions Cup today (Oct. 17).

Meanwhile, the BBC and Metro report that emergency services found Andrews unconscious in the shower in his room at the Atalante-Relais Thalasso hotel in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré yesterday morning. The outlets added that the pro athlete had reportedly suffered a heart attack.

"This devastating news has sent shockwaves through the international rugby community," the Lions said in a statement. "His loss will be felt profoundly by his teammates, coaches, supporters, and all who had the privilege of knowing him."

"Our deepest and most heartfelt condolences go to Hyron's wife, Maiglin, their young sons, and the entire Andrews family," the team added.

Hyron Andrews Played Pro Rugby in England Before Signing with a South African Team in 2024

A native of Paarl, Andrews began his rugby career with the Junior Springboks in 2015. However, after a pro tour with the KZN Sharks and Sale Sharks in England, he joined the Lions in his home country in 2024.

Mark Alexander, the South African Rugby Union president, also paid tribute to Andrews in a heartfelt statement.

"This is terrible and distressing news. Our hearts go out to Hyron's family and the whole Lions rugby community," Alexander shared. "Hyron was a respected member of the rugby community. [His]contribution to the game and impact on those around him will be remembered with great fondness."

"His untimely passing is a devastating loss. We share in the grief of all who knew and loved him."

The Lions have also opted to go forward with their match in the European Champions Cup.

"The squad, as a group, have chosen to play tomorrow as planned in honour of their teammate," the European Professional Club Rugby announced. "In memory of Hyron, a moment's silence will be held ahead of every Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup match this weekend."

Meanwhile, the Sainte-Marie-de-Ré police's investigation into Andrews' death is ongoing.