Paul Gascoigne Opens Up About Ongoing Struggles with Alcohol

Legendary former England and Tottenham midfielder Paul Gascoigne has revealed he still consumes alcohol occasionally, sharing an emotional account during an appearance on a morning television show. At 58, Gazza has long battled addiction and mental health issues, struggles he openly discusses in his new memoir, ‘Eight’.

During a heartfelt interview, Gascoigne admitted he experiences setbacks, often hitting the bottle after periods of sobriety, which leads him to re-engage with Alcoholics Anonymous. “I can go months without drinking, but then I have a slip-up for a couple of days, and I don’t like myself afterward,” he explained.

He reflected on how attending AA meetings helped him realize he was an alcoholic, describing moments of deep emotional pain and trauma. His honesty was palpable, as he shared memories of childhood tragedy, including witnessing a friend’s brother die in his arms after a traffic accident. This traumatic event profoundly impacted his life and contributed to his struggles with mental health and addiction.

Gascoigne also discussed the damaging effects of phone hacking in his personal life, which led to family disputes and battles with depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Despite these hardships, he emphasized that football has been a vital refuge, describing how the sport helped him cope with his pain and provided a sense of purpose during difficult times.

Throughout the interview, Gascoigne appeared close to tears when recalling his past and the challenges he faces. Many viewers expressed concern and empathy, praising the hosts for conducting a compassionate interview. His story highlights the ongoing battle with addiction and the importance of support and understanding.

Gascoigne’s journey underscores that even legendary sports figures are not immune to personal struggles but can find hope through honesty and perseverance.