Former South Africa captain Francois Pienaar has described New Zealand legend Jonah Lomu as a "superstar on and off the pitch" following his untimely death.
The world of rugby is in mourning after the ex-winger suddenly passed away at the age of 40 on Wednesday morning.
"He took the game of rugby to the living rooms of people that didn't know about rugby but appreciated that athleticism, skill and power," Pienaar told BBC Sport.
"He became the hero of many, many kids, who wanted to emulate him. He was the first truly global rugby superstar on and off the pitch."
Lomu, who was on dialysis following kidney problems, is widely credited with revolutionising the sport following his barnstorming emergence onto the international scene in 1994.
"He was very unique but also one of those guys who never had a big head. He knew his ability but he was very humble," ex-Australian wing David Campese added.
With 15 tries in 11 World Cup games, Lomu is tied with South Africa's Bryan Habana as the competition's leading tryscorer of all time.
Habana wrote on Instagram: "His on-field fearlessness was matched by his off-field humility. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.
"It was a privilege to have met you, to have been inspired by you and to watch you make the biggest impact we have ever seen on the game we love so dearly."
Lomu is survived by his wife Nadene and their two sons Braylee and Dhyreille.
Shane Callaghan
