Alix Popham unable to recognise wife and taken to hospital with concussion

Alix Popham, the concussion campaigner and former Wales international, suffered a suspected concussion while participating in a charity fundraising event on Sunday.

Popham was unable to recognise his wife after he was kicked in the head during the swimming section of an Ironman event in Tenby, Pembrokeshire.

The 43-year-old was taken to hospital after his condition deteriorated once out of the water, having previously felt dizzy and suffered a headache.

Popham, who won 33 caps for Wales between 2003 and 2008, was diagnosed with early on-set dementia at the age of 40. He is one of 300 players in Wales who are currently part of a lawsuit over head injuries against governing bodies in rugby.

Popham was participating in the event to raise funds for his charity Head For Change, and was pictured before the start of the race alongside former Wales internationals Ian Gough and Shane Williams.

Progressive Rugby, the player welfare group, said: “After months of intense training to raise money for concussion education and support, Alix has had to withdraw after suffering a suspected concussion from being kicked in the head during the swim.

“Alix was unable to recognize wife Mel as he came out of the water. Although dizzy and suffering a headache, he appeared ok but his condition has deteriorated and he is currently being transferred by ambulance to hospital. Updates posted with permission.”

Speaking to Telegraph Sport this week in an interview to promote the triathlon, Popham revealed his belief that he had potentially suffered by thousands of sub-concussions in training.

“It was like the Wild West, just mayhem,” Popham said, adding that he does not remember any of his career. “I’m proud of what I achieved. I can’t remember it mind, but no regrets. I just wish the knowledge of what was known was shared with us. Then you might have made different choices.”