As the tragic news of the death of Anthony Foley reaches us, a number of athletes, sports people and people who knew him from around the world have taken to Twitter to share their thoughts.

The President of Ireland Michael D Higgins has said it is with "great sadness" he heard of the sudden death of Anthony Foley.

"Anthony Foley excelled from a young age and made a huge contribution to the successes of Munster and Ireland, in both his playing and coaching careers.

"As President of Ireland, and as Patron of the IRFU, I offer them and Munster rugby my deepest sympathies."

The Mayor of the City and County of Limerick Cllr Kieran O’Hanlon has said he was devastated to hear of the sudden passing of Munster Rugby Coach Anthony Foley.

“It was with great shock that I learned this afternoon of the tragic and sudden death of Munster legend Anthony Foley. He was a giant among men and a true gentleman. He will be sadly missed.”

“My thoughts and prayers and those of the people of Limerick are with Anthony’s family at this terrible time.

“Anthony was a true son of Limerick, and Limerick is in mourning for one of their own.”

The Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross, TD, along with the Minister of State with responsibility for Sport and Tourism, and TD for Limerick County, Patrick O’Donovan, today expressed their sadness on hearing of the tragic passing of Anthony Foley in Paris today. Munster’s current Head Coach, Anthony served Munster and Ireland brilliantly during his career.

Minister Ross said “Our thoughts and prayers are with Anthony’s partner, children, family, and friends at this very difficult time.”

Limerick TD, Minister O’Donovan said “Anthony will be very fondly remembered for the joy and pleasure that he brought to the people of Limerick, Munster and Ireland. He will be remembered for his heroics and bravery on the field and his legacy will live long with his extraordinary achievements in caps and tries, both at home and in Europe. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dilis.”

Sonia O’Sullivan

Very sad & shocking news hearing about Anthony Foley today #RIP

— sonia osullivan (@soniaagrith) October 16, 2016

Freddie Burns, Leicester Tigers Rugby Player

Thoughts with @Munsterrugby, @IrishRugby and all family and friends of Anthony Foley. Terrible news. RIP

— Freddie Burns (@FreddieBurns) October 16, 2016

Frankie Sheahan, Former Munster & Ireland Rugby Pro

Distraught at the tragic news of Anthony Foley,great friend,teammate & legend.Super form last weekend at Mick Galwey's 50th.Incomprehensible pic.twitter.com/lpnGMvnN2x

— Frankie Sheahan (@FrankieSheahan) October 16, 2016

Brett Gosper, CEO World Rugby

Shocked by tragic news of Anthony Foley. All at World Rugby send our heart felt condolences and thoughts to family,friends and @Munsterrugby

— Brett Gosper (@brettgosper) October 16, 2016

Brian Hurley, Cork Footballer

Frightened by this news!!
RIP Anthony Foley. #munsterlegend

— Brian Hurley (@BrianHurley15) October 16, 2016

Jordan Crane, Rugby Player for Bristol

Shocked to hear the news about Anthony Foley. Thoughts go out to his family and everyone at @Munsterrugby #RIPAxel

— Jordan Crane (@JordanCrane86) October 16, 2016

Phil Davies, Former Welsh International and Head Coach of Rugby Namibia

RIP to a giant of a man @Munsterrugby legend Anthony Foley 🏉 A fantastic rugby man both on & off the field. Heartfelt condolences.

— Phil Davies (@pd4rugby) October 16, 2016

St Munchin’s College

We extend our thoughts and prayers to the Foley family and to all at @Munsterrugby on the passing of a legend. Rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/h6d14SEhu1

— St Munchin's College (@stmunchins) October 16, 2016

Shannon RFC

We're absolutely devastated to hear of the passing of Anthony Foley. Our thoughts&prayers are with his wife Olive,his children& his family

— Shannon RFC (@shannonrfc) October 16, 2016