Former rugby star Gavin Henson opens up about his shock diagnosis
Rugby NewsWednesday, 29 January 2025 at 08:02
Ex-rugby star Gavin Henson has revealed he is on the autism spectrum, admitting he struggles to maintain friendships and often feels like a "poor friend."
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The 42-year-old, who shares two children with former fiancée , opened up about his social challenges during a candid chat on with .
"I can be a little bit odd"
Henson explained that he rarely keeps in touch with ex-teammates and finds social situations difficult—unless there's a drink involved.
"They're always wanting something from me. So it's not really like a friendship, I suppose, with some of the ex-rugby boys. I'm a poor friend," he admitted.
"I am on the autism spectrum, so that’s my excuse. It’s just the way I am, it’s nothing personal. I can be a little bit odd."
"I had to fake it to fit in"
Despite not having an official diagnosis, Henson said he’s been on a journey of self-discovery, speaking with people who have suggested he is autistic.
"For coaches and players throughout the years, it probably makes sense to them. I think people found it hard to understand me," he said.
"They always liked to try and mould you into the group, and I learned how to do that—to fake it—so that I’d play on the weekend."
A career of highs and controversies
Henson burst onto the scene with Swansea RFC before becoming a key figure for Ospreys, where his dazzling footwork, powerful boot, and natural flair made him one of Welsh rugby’s biggest stars. He was instrumental in Wales’ 2005 and 2008 Six Nations Grand Slam victories, with his famous long-range penalty against England in 2005 cementing his place in rugby folklore.
His performances earned him a spot on the 2005 British & Irish Lions tour to New Zealand, though injuries and off-field distractions limited his impact. Known for his celebrity lifestyle and high-profile relationship with Charlotte Church, Henson often made headlines for reasons beyond rugby.
After leaving Ospreys, he had spells with Saracens, Toulon, Cardiff Blues, London Welsh, Bath, and Bristol, but struggled to recapture his early-career brilliance. He finished his professional career at Dragons before switching to football in 2019, briefly playing for Welsh club Super Fox United.
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