Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Paul Wade has revealed that he was diagnosed with probable chronic traumatic encephalopathy in late 2025, renewing calls in Australia to ban heading for footballers under 12. The former Australia captain spoke publicly on July 22 to raise awareness of concussion, repeated head impacts and long-term brain health.
The 64-year-old first received a suspected CTE diagnosis in late 2024 after reporting neurological symptoms. CTE is linked to repeated head impacts, but a definitive diagnosis can currently be made only after death.
The disclosure comes during a busy football news cycle that also includes Liverpool ruling out key player exits under Andoni Iraola.
Paul Wade Describes His Symptoms
Professional Footballers Australia's official announcement says further neurological assessment and specialist evaluation led to the probable CTE diagnosis. Paul Wade has reported memory loss, mood swings and changes in temperament.
"Football gave me so much. It gave me a life, a career, incredible experiences and the privilege of representing Australia," Paul Wade said.
"But I also must be honest about the challenges I now face and the uncertainty that comes with living with a neurodegenerative condition."
Doctor Calls for Junior Heading Ban
Neurologist Dr Rowena Mobbs wants heading removed from football for children under 12. "As a neurologist, I call for a reduction in heading for players, including removing all heading under 12," Dr Rowena Mobbs said.
"You only get one brain."
Paul Wade won 84 caps for Australia and captained the national team from 1990 to 1996. He also played 345 National Soccer League matches.
His story now appears in a Professional Footballers Australia mini-documentary examining his career and life with probable CTE.