Prince William Calls Knighthood for Sir Kevin Sinfield 'Easiest Decision'

Prince William has stated that awarding a knighthood to rugby league star Sir Kevin Sinfield was "probably the easiest decision anyone's ever had to make." The Prince of Wales shared his personal admiration for Sinfield, who recently completed seven ultra-marathons in seven days to raise funds for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) charities.

Sir Kevin Sinfield undertook the endurance challenge in memory of his friend and former teammate, Rob Burrow, who died from MND in 2024. Prince William told BBC Breakfast that he believed Sinfield "should have been Sir Kevin years ago" and that his ability to unite communities makes him an invaluable figure. "The more Kevs we have in this country the better," the Prince remarked.

Last month, the Prince and Princess of Wales visited Wakefield in West Yorkshire to witness part of the gruelling ultramarathon challenge. Prince William described Sinfield as a "machine" and expressed concern for his physical well-being, saying, "I don't know how he keeps going, I'm worried about his knees, I'm worried about his hips."

Prince William highlighted Sinfield's lack of ego, describing him as a "top bloke, really nice guy, good, honest, kind, decent northerner." He noted that this humility is particularly important in a world where individuals often seek to highlight their achievements. "Kevin does it very quietly very subtly," the Prince added.

Rob Burrow's diagnosis with MND transformed his relationship with Sinfield into a public campaign to raise awareness and funds for the condition. Sinfield's unwavering support for Burrow and his family underscored his commitment to the MND community.

Prince William also spoke about writing to Rob Burrow's wife, Lindsey, and their children following Burrow's death. He expressed awe at Lindsey's composure and dignity during her grief. The Prince shared that he wrote the letter from both a royal perspective and as someone who understood the pain of losing a parent, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging grief.

In November of the previous year, Prince William officiated the opening of the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease at Seacroft Hospital in Leeds, an event he described as deeply emotional but filled with optimism. He felt it was personally rewarding and important to "close the circle" and honour the commitment made.

During the interview, Prince William also acknowledged the significant contributions of Scottish rugby union player Doddie Weir, who passed away from MND in 2022, and his aunt, Princess Anne, for her long-standing support of the MND community. The Prince concluded by reiterating his high regard for Sir Kevin, calling him "gold dust" and a "very kind, caring, human being."