Former Newcastle Knights and Catalans Dragons centre-back Scott Duro has died aged 39 after a long and courageous battle with brain cancer. The former rugby league star has been battling the disease for more than a decade, since doctors first discovered a tumor behind his eye in 2013.Duro is admired not only for his performance on the court, but also for his resilience despite health struggles. Despite undergoing multiple surgeries and devastating medical updates over the years, he remained determined to continue fighting. His death marks a heartbreaking loss for the sport and all who knew him.
Rugby League pays tribute to Scott Durrow
Scott Dureau began his professional rugby league career with the Newcastle Knights, playing 42 NRL games between 2007 and 2010. The Tali-born playmaker later joined Catalonia Dragons in the Superliga and became one of the club’s most influential players. He made 97 appearances between 2011 and 2015, establishing himself as the team’s first-choice centre-back.His performance earned him widespread recognition. Duro was selected to the Super League Dream Team twice in 2011 and 2012. He also played in England’s two annual matches for the Exiles, a team made up of the best overseas players.In 2013, Duro’s career took an unexpected turn when doctors discovered a tumor behind his eye. He underwent surgery to remove it and worked his way back into the game. However, health issues ultimately forced him to retire from professional rugby league at the end of the 2015 season.His fight didn’t end there. In 2018, the tumor recurred and required another surgery. Doctors later discovered the cancer had spread to his liver and he was reportedly given just 18 months to live. Despite the grim prognosis, Duro continues to receive treatment. He was later exonerated, giving hope to his family and supporters.Unfortunately, the disease returned again in January 2023. A physical examination revealed 5 new brain tumors. This resulted in another major surgery. Duro continued to fight the disease with extraordinary courage before his death this week.After retiring, Duro continued to be involved in rugby league. He joins the Newcastle Knights coaching staff and will work with the club until the end of the 2021 season to help develop the next generation of players.The Catalans led tributes after confirming his death. The club said everyone involved with the team was deeply saddened by the loss of a player who had shown extraordinary bravery during his illness. The statement added that Duro will be remembered not only for his achievements on the court, but also for his kindness, humility and the positive impact he had on those around him. The club also extends its heartfelt sympathies to his wife Libby, their daughters Imogen and Everly and the rest of his family at this difficult time.
