Off the PitchDaily Mail FootballUnverified source· 22 Jul 2026
Socceroos legend Paul Wade reveals CTE diagnosis
Former captain speaks out about probable CTE after decades of heading footballs.
O. Wade
player
Who
Paul Wade
What
Diagnosed with probable CTE
Age
64
Caps
84 for Australia
What happened. Paul Wade, former Socceroos captain, announced he has been diagnosed with probable chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a neurodegenerative condition linked to repeated head impacts.
- CTE can only be definitively diagnosed post-mortem; probable diagnosis given while alive.
- Wade did not suffer notable concussions but headed the ball frequently.
- He calls for better education and prevention in football.
“Football gave me so much. It gave me a life, a career, incredible experiences and the privilege of representing Australia.”
— Paul Wade
His neurologist urges banning headers in junior football, as done in England for under-12s.
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