Another 2003 Rugby World Cup winner reveals he has brain damage

12/13/2024 02:57 PM

England rugby legend Phil Vickery has revealed he's been diagnosed with chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), marking the first time the 2003 World Cup winner has spoken publicly about the condition.

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The 48-year-old, who earned more than 70 caps for England, was a key figure in the unforgettable team that triumphed in Australia. However, despite the devastating diagnosis, Vickery has made it clear he harbors no resentment toward rugby.

“Not angry or bitter”
Speaking to The Times, Vickery reflected on the lead-up to his diagnosis, sharing:
“I kind of knew before I'd even had the scan done. I said that to the guy: 'I know something's wrong with me.' I didn't want to do anything about it.”

Fighting for the Future
The former prop has now joined nearly 400 other players in a class-action concussion lawsuit against World Rugby, the RFU, and the Welsh Rugby Union. His focus, he says, is on securing a better future for those who may have to care for him.

“It's not about hanging the game out,” he explained.
“It's just about, 'Right, so the reality is I could possibly be, in a few years' time, not in a very good way, and will need help and care.' I'd like to think whoever's around to look after me has got some money, instead of being a burden to my family or friends.”

“I didn't sign up for this.”
Challenging the narrative that players understood the risks, Vickery added:
“You know the classic response: 'You knew what you signed up to.' Well, OK. I didn't. I don't remember talking about getting brain damage.”

The rugby world now watches as Vickery takes on this fight—not for anger or revenge, but for fairness and care for those affected by similar struggles.

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Bookies Reckon This is the Lions Squad for the 2025 Aussie Tour – And Some Picks Will Surprise You

BACK-THREE (6)

The back-three boasts a dynamic mix, with Duhan van der Merwe and James Lowe bringing powerful running and finishing ability. Tommy Freeman and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso are tipped to add youthful flair and speed, while Hugo Keenan and Darcy Graham round out the squad with their solid defensive skills.

• Duhan van der Merwe (Scotland) – 1/16
• James Lowe (Ireland) – 1/8
• Hugo Keenan (Ireland) – 1/5
• Tommy Freeman (England) – 4/9
• Immanuel Feyi-Waboso (England) – 8/11
• Darcy Graham (Scotland) – 2/1

CENTRE (4)

In the centre, Bundee Aki is a strong favorite for his physicality, while Ollie Lawrence has made a name for himself with his impressive form. Sione Tuipulotu and Robbie Henshaw provide additional versatility and experience.

• Bundee Aki (Ireland) – 1/5
• Ollie Lawrence (England) – 1/4
• Sione Tuipulotu (Scotland) – 2/7
• Robbie Henshaw (Ireland) – 8/11

FLY-HALVES (3)

The fly-half selection highlights Finn Russell's creativity and flair, with Marcus Smith and George Ford both showcasing tactical nous and playmaking ability.

• Finn Russell (Scotland) – 1/10
• Marcus Smith (England) – 8/15
• George Ford (England) – 8/11

SCRUM-HALVES (3)

A competitive scrum-half group sees Jamison Gibson-Park favored for his quick service and decision-making, while Alex Mitchell and Ben White are both strong contenders.

• Jamison Gibson-Park (Ireland) – 8/11
• Alex Mitchell (England) – 11/10
• Ben White (Scotland) – 11/10

PROP (3)

The front row is anchored by stalwarts like Tadhg Furlong and Andrew Porter, while Ellis Genge and Joe Marler add depth and experience.

• Tadhg Furlong (Ireland) – 1/8
• Andrew Porter (Ireland) – 1/7
• Zander Fagerson (Scotland) – 4/11
• Ellis Genge (England) – 4/6
• Joe Marler (England) – 5/6
• Pierre Schoeman (Scotland) – 5/4

HOOKER (3)

With Dan Sheehan leading the way, the hookers are expected to be agile and mobile, crucial for the fast-paced style of play the Lions aim to adopt.

• Dan Sheehan (Ireland) – 1/10
• Jamie George (England) – 8/15
• Elliot Dee (Wales) – 6/5

LOCK (5)

In the locks, Maro Itoje remains a cornerstone, complemented by Tadhg Beirne's athleticism and versatility.

• Maro Itoje (England) – 1/33
• Tadhg Beirne (Ireland) – 1/10
• Joe McCarthy (Ireland) – 4/6
• Ollie Chessum (England) – 8/11
• George Martin (England) – 11/10

BACK-ROW (6)

Finally, the back row combines experience and dynamism, with Josh van der Flier and Courtney Lawes bringing a wealth of international experience and physicality.

• Caelan Doris (Ireland) – 1/5
• Ben Earl (England) – 1/5
• Josh van der Flier (Ireland) – 1/3
• Courtney Lawes (England) – 8/15
• Tommy Reffell (Wales) – 4/6
• Rory Darge (Scotland) – 6/4

Rugby World Cup-winning captains – can you name them all?

Out of these exceptional leaders, some have claimed the title just once, while others have done so on multiple occasions. Captains from nations such as New Zealand, Australia, England, and South Africa are part of the exclusive list of multiple-time champions.

We challenge you to identify all Rugby World Cup-winning captains across the tournament’s history spanning 10 editions.

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