Petter Rudi, a 52-year-old former professional footballer, has been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the most common type of motor neurone disease, which destroys motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord and has no cure. The diagnosis was reported by multiple media outlets, though the exact timing and current stage of his condition remain unclear. Rudi made 89 appearances for Sheffield Wednesday between 1997 and 2000, scoring 10 goals during his time with the English club.
He also played for Belgian clubs Gent, Lokeren, and Beerschot, Austrian club Austria Wien, and his boyhood club Molde. Rudi won the Norwegian Cup twice with Molde and the Austrian Bundesliga with Austria Wien. Internationally, Rudi earned 46 caps for the Norwegian national team between 1995 and 2006, netting three goals.
We at Molde Football Club are deeply affected by the fact that our former midfielder, both in Molde and for the Norwegian national team – and current scout at the club – Petter Rudi, is affected by the serious muscle disease ALS.
He currently serves as a scout at Molde Football Club, a role whose future adjustments in light of his diagnosis have not been specified. Molde Football Club issued a statement expressing deep concern over his condition, with chief executive Vegard Storvik noting Rudi's continued commitment to the club despite his diagnosis. Sheffield Wednesday sent a message of support to Rudi and his family following his diagnosis.
Details about Rudi's specific symptoms, planned medical treatments, or support initiatives from Molde or other organizations have not been disclosed, leaving uncertainties about how his condition will progress and impact his daily life and professional responsibilities.
This is a very sad message that affects us deeply. Petter has worked at the club for many years. He is close to us in everyday life, and is working committedly on the football strategy we are now building at Molde Football Club. I have had many nice conversations with Petter. It makes a strong impression to experience both his openness and the strength he shows in the face of something so serious. At the same time, I feel a great humility – and gratitude – that he, despite a demanding situation, finds it meaningful and still wants to contribute and be an important part of everyday life at Molde Football Club. At Molde Football Club we often talk about 'we'. Now it means more than ever. The MFK family is a big WE – a community that carries when life is at its most challenging. Now is the time to stand close together around Petter, one of our biggest profiles, with care, strength and warmth. The dedication, loyalty and pride he has given throughout his entire life for football and for the club is something we have all had the opportunity to take part in – and now it is our turn to give something back, in the form of support, care, unity and belonging.