Former New Zealand rugby star Sonny Bill Williams has disclosed that he underwent life-saving surgery after suffering a serious heart condition that left him concerned about his survival.

Williams, a former All Black and celebrated figure in international rugby, shared details of the frightening experience in a video released on Friday. He explained that his heart was in a dangerous state before medical professionals stepped in to address the problem.

Describing the severity of his condition, the former international rugby player said his heart “was about to pop”. His statement offered a glimpse into the seriousness of the medical emergency and the importance of the operation he underwent.

The revelation has attracted attention to Williams' health, placing the focus on his personal well-being rather than his achievements on the sporting field. Although he enjoyed a remarkable career across rugby union and rugby league, the latest development has raised concerns among supporters who have followed his journey over the years.

Williams established himself as a formidable centre during his rugby union career, earning recognition for his physical presence, attacking instincts and ability to deliver precise offloads under pressure. His performances helped him become a valuable member of New Zealand's national team, the All Blacks.

One of the most significant achievements of his career was winning two Rugby World Cup titles with New Zealand in 2011 and 2015. These successes further strengthened his reputation as one of the country's outstanding sporting personalities.

Before and during his rugby union career, Williams also enjoyed considerable success in rugby league, demonstrating his versatility by competing at the highest level in both codes. His ability to adapt between the two formats made him one of the most distinctive athletes in the sport.

Following his accomplishments on the pitch, Williams expanded his activities into boxing, broadcasting and public speaking. His sporting achievements and personal experiences have continued to attract attention from audiences beyond New Zealand.

However, his latest disclosure has brought an unexpected health challenge into the spotlight. While Williams revealed the alarming condition of his heart before the surgery, the available information did not specify his exact diagnosis, the precise procedure performed or how long his recovery might take.

Supporters will be hoping that the former rugby champion recovers fully and returns to good health. His experience highlights the importance of taking serious medical symptoms seriously, regardless of a person's fitness or athletic background.

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