Former Great Britain Rugby League star Terry Newton was found hanged after worried friends alerted police.
Newton, 31, was sacked by Wakefield earlier this year after being handed a two-year suspension from the game for using a performance enhancing drug.
It is thought he took his own life after becoming depressed over both his career and private life.
A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said: "Police were called to a house on Harswell Close in Orrell, Wigan, following a report of concern for his welfare.
"Officers went to the address and found the body of a 31-year-old man. Inquiries have been launched, but there are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding his death."
Rugby League declared itself in mourning as tributes flooded in. Newton, a father of two young girls, was known as one of the more colourful characters in the game.
Rugby Football League chairman Richard Lewis said: "We are deeply shocked and saddened by the news of Terry's untimely death. This is a personal tragedy and our thoughts are with Terry's partner, his children and his family at this terrible time."
Wakefield coach John Kear was too upset to comment but the club issued a statement saying: "Wakefield Trinity Wildcats would like to pass on their heartfelt condolences to Terry's family."
Newton, a hooker who also played for Leeds, Wigan and Bradford, represented Great Britain 15 times, scoring three tries and also won five England caps.
His career crumbled when he tested positive for a banned substance in November last year during pre-season training with Wakefield.
