Former Wales utility forward reveals dementia diagnosis at 39

Former Wales utility forward Andrew Coombs has revealed he has been diagnosed with dementia and probable chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).

The 39-year-old is one of more than 200 retired rugby players who are suing World Rugby, the Rugby Football Union and the Welsh Rugby Union for allegedly failing to put in place reasonable measures to protect the health and safety of players.

2013 Six Nations winner

Coombs, who won the 2013 Six Nations with Wales and who also represented Newport and the Dragons, issued a lengthy statement on social media.

“I’m writing to share some personal news that has deeply impacted my life and the lives of my loved ones,” he wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.

“Eight months ago, I was diagnosed with dementia and probable chronic traumatic encephalopathy after suffering symptoms for around four years.

“This first came to my attention whilst featuring on a live episode of Scrum V Sunday, where discussions around CTE symptoms resonated with me deeply.

“It was a challenging decision to seek medical advice. However, understanding the changes happening within me became imperative.

“The diagnosis was a heartbreaking one but it answered many questions that had been lingering in my mind and worrying me for so long.”

Ex-England captain Phil Vickery and former Wales utility back Gavin Henson were revealed to be part of the legal case for the first time on Friday after waiving their anonymity in the claims against the aforementioned governing bodies.

The players’ lawyers have previously alleged the governing bodies did not take reasonable steps to protect players from injury caused by repetitive blows and that many now have permanent neurological injuries, including early onset dementia, Parkinson’s disease and CTE.

In his statement, Coombs, who made 10 appearances for Wales between 2013 and 2014, wrote: “I do question those who were responsible for managing the health risks associated with repetitive head collisions and concussions.

“Some may not understand my decision to join the legal action and that’s OK. Unfortunately I am currently unable to share my personal experiences that led to this decision, which might have provided more clarity.

‘Spirit remains strong’

“Whilst I am devastated by my diagnosis, my spirit remains strong and, in a strange way, the diagnosis has brought relief and clarity, as it has provided answers to many of my questions.

“I’m trying to be myself as much as possible, enjoying life to the fullest, not allowing my condition to destroy my mental health.”

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