Star player draws fire for 'special needs' remark

Ali Williams. Photo / Getty Images

Rugby star Ali Williams' comment that he felt like "a special needs victim" during his comeback game for the Blues has gone down poorly with those who work with the intellectually disabled.

The 30-year-old lock, who is on the rebound from yet another injury lay-off, is seeking to regain his All Black jersey for this year's Rugby World Cup.

Asked how he felt after his 66-minute performance on Friday for the Blues in their 40-23 win over the Melbourne Rebels at North Harbour Stadium, Williams said he was "really happy".

"I sort of feel like a special needs victim. Every time I do something everyone makes a hurrah," he said.

The comments have upset those who work with people with special needs, including IHC New Zealand's national manager for self-advocacy, Caroline Barnes.

Ms Barnes said the comments would have shocked and surprised people with intellectual disabilities and their families, many of whom were big rugby fans.

About 40,000 people - or 1 per cent of the population - have some form of intellectual disability.

"It is very disappointing that he has made the comments because a lot of people with intellectual disabilities look up to people like Ali Williams," said Ms Barnes. "They see the All Blacks as their heroes, their mentors and role models."

Williams' father has been in a wheelchair since 1998 after falling down a flight of stairs during a concert at Ericsson Stadium. Blues spokesman Jo Coleman could not be contacted for comment.

Williams' last two seasons have been beset by an Achilles problems. He suffered a hamstring injury earlier this season but is expected to be in the picture for the World Cup.