Wallabies great Phil Waugh’s son Jack dies aged 21: ‘Profound sadness’

Wallabies great and Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh is mourning the death of his son Jack aged just 21.

He was the first son of Waugh and his ex-wife Michelle, and an older brother to Charlie.

“Words cannot express the profound sadness we feel at the loss of our beloved son, Jack,” the Waugh family said in a statement.

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“Jack was a fun-loving young man whose warmth and spirit touched all who knew him, and he will remain forever in our hearts.

“As we come to terms with the shock of his passing, we kindly ask that the privacy of his family and friends be respected during this time of grief.

“We are deeply grateful for the messages of love and support we have received.”

Jack died last week from an accidental drug overdose.

Charlie paid tribute to his brother with a series of photos on Instagram.

“To my big brother, I love you more than words could ever explain,” he wrote.

“You helped me grow into the person I am today, always looked out for me and protected me when I needed it most. I’ll carry everything you taught me for the rest of my life.

“I know you’ll be looking over me from wherever you are, and I know you’ll always be rooting for me. I hope I can make you proud.

“Rest easy Jack, I love you, always and forever.”

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Waugh also has younger sons with second wife Abbe.

The 46-year-old played in the 2003 Rugby World Cup final against England during a stellar Wallabies career.

He also captained the NSW Waratahs in Super Rugby.

Waugh later joined the Rugby Australia board and became the first former Wallabies player to take over as CEO when he was appointed in 2023.