India, Oct. 23 -- Former New Zealand rugby star Sonny Bill Williams has revealed he underwent open-heart surgery after a routine medical check-up uncovered a potentially life-threatening heart defect that had gone undetected throughout his sporting career.

The 41-year-old shared his experience in an emotional 24-minute YouTube video titled 'My Heart Stopped', documenting the diagnosis, the operation and his difficult recovery alongside his wife, Alana.

Williams said the defect was discovered during a follow-up appointment after he underwent neck surgery. He had not realised that he was living with a serious heart condition despite competing at the highest level in rugby league, rugby union and professional boxing.

"So, if I didn't go i...