Paul Wade announces probable CTE diagnosis, calls for youth heading ban
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 22, 2026, 6:37 AM
Last updated Jul 22, 2026
Former Australia soccer captain Paul Wade revealed on July 22, 2026, his diagnosis of probable chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) following neurological symptoms. Wade, who earned 84 international caps for Australia, advocates for banning heading the ball for players under 12 years old. He experiences memory issues and mood swings attributed to head injuries sustained during his career. Wade's neurologist, Dr. Rowena Mobbs, supports his call for reduced heading at junior levels. Wade's experience is documented in a new mini documentary by Professional Footballers Australia, emphasizing the need for greater awareness around brain injury in sports.
- •Paul Wade diagnosed with probable CTE after neurological symptoms
- •Calls for a ban on heading for players under age 12
- •Wade documented in a mini documentary by Professional Footballers Australia
- •Increased focus on brain injury awareness in soccer
- •Dr. Rowena Mobbs supports reduced heading in youth soccer
- 6:37 AMYahoo Sports — Ex-Socceroos captain Paul Wade says he has probable CTE, urges no heading for junior players
"Former Australia soccer captain Paul Wade says he has been diagnosed with probable chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) and has renewed his calls for all players under the age of 12 to be banned from heading the ball. Wade, who played 84 internationals for Australia, on Wednesday said he realizes his memory is fading and he is experiencing mood swings due to repeated head injuries he experienced during his soccer career. While it can only be definitively diagnosed by an autopsy after death, Wade received a diagnosis of suspected CTE in late 2024 following the presentation of neurological symptoms.
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