Ryan Jones: Dementia Diagnosis Haunts Ex-Wales Captain

Ryan Jones, the former Wales captain, has revealed he cannot remember parts of his playing career after being diagnosed with early-onset dementia and probable chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).

Jones disclosed the diagnosis in 2022, after struggling with depression once his playing days ended in 2015. He won 75 caps for Wales, was part of three Grand Slam-winning Six Nations campaigns, and toured with the British and Irish Lions in 2005.

In a new BBC documentary, Ryan Jones: Unbreakable, the former back row said he is torn over whether his career was worth it, and that his greatest concern now is for his six children and step-children.

Jones said the years after retirement brought a period he could not shake. Four or five years on, he said, he was in a dark place, some days unable to get out of bed, going back and forth to doctors while trying to explain that something was wrong. He was offered medication and turned it down, sensing there was more to his condition than depression and anxiety alone.

He received his diagnosis during the Covid pandemic, after hearing an interview with fellow former Wales international Alix Popham. The two are among a large group of former players now suing World Rugby.