Nathan Charles diagnosed with motor neurone disease
Nathan Charles, 37-year-old former Wallabies hooker, has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease.
George Gregan, chairman of the Global Rugby Players Foundation, says there is a direct link between contact sports and motor neurone disease. Charles played four tests for Australia in 2014 and overcame cystic fibrosis from birth to reach international level.
Gregan, in Sydney with fellow legends Richie McCaw and Dan Carter, called for increased research and support after Charles' diagnosis. Several high-profile rugby and league players have been diagnosed with MND, including Jai Arrow, Rob Burrow, Lewis Moody, Carl Webb, Joost van der Westhuizen and Doddie Weir, who died in 2022.
Gregan said his wife's father also lost his fight with the disease. He praised the awareness raised by initiatives like Doddie Weir's campaign and urged continued action to find a cure.
- 37 years old
- Charles' age
- Four Tests for Australia in 2014
- Test matches
- 2022
- Weir's death
Why it mattersThe cluster of MND cases among contact sports players is raising urgent questions about whether the sport itself carries health risks that need investigation and prevention.
AustraliaAustralian rugby league and rugby union are facing pressure to investigate possible links between the sport and motor neurone disease in their players.
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