Paul Gascoigne Courageously Reveals the ‘Gigantic Mistake’ of His Marriage to Sheryl

Former England football star Paul Gascoigne recently shared details from his tumultuous life in a new memoir titled “Eight.” In this candid account, Gascoigne reflects on pivotal moments, including a fateful incident with his ex-wife Sheryl and the impact it had on his life and career.

Paul Gascoigne’s Marriage: A ‘Gigantic Mistake’

In “Eight,” Gascoigne reveals that he views his marriage to Sheryl as a “gigantic mistake.” The couple’s relationship faced immense pressure, leading to a notorious argument at the Gleneagles Hotel in Scotland in 1996. This violent altercation involved Gascoigne headbutting Sheryl and pushing her to the floor, resulting in a serious moment of regret for the football icon.

Details of the Incident

• The couple was on a vacation at the Gleneagles Hotel when an argument escalated.
• Gascoigne admitted that he “messed up” after pushing Sheryl, an incident he would regret deeply.
• Following the confrontation, Sheryl filed for divorce just one year after their wedding.
• Gascoigne was required to pay £700,000 in the divorce settlement, alongside £10,000 monthly maintenance.

Personal Struggles and Career Highlights

Beyond his marital issues, Gascoigne’s life has been marked by profound personal struggles, including mental health challenges and addiction. He has openly discussed the trauma of childhood abuse, which eventually led him to seek psychiatric help as a teenager for depression.

Significant Life Events

• Gascoigne’s son, Reagan, was born in February 1996, a moment he missed due to being out with friends.
• He found out Reagan’s name from a newspaper while at a pub, highlighting the disconnect in his personal life.
• Gascoigne’s wedding to Sheryl cost approximately £150,000, indicating the high stakes of his early relationship.

Reflections on His Past

Throughout “Eight,” Gascoigne candidly addresses the public perception shaped by incidents like the one at Gleneagles. He references chants from rival fans calling him a “wife beater,” a label that continues to haunt him. Traveling through these dark memories, he shares moments of vulnerability, including feelings of regret almost immediately following their wedding.

Legacy in Football

Despite his personal turmoil, Gascoigne made a significant impact on the football world. He played for renowned clubs like Newcastle, Tottenham, and Lazio, earning 57 caps for the England national team. His career includes iconic moments, such as his emotional reaction to a yellow card during the 1990 World Cup. However, his on-field successes have often been overshadowed by his struggles off the pitch, including battles with alcohol and substance abuse.

Future Prospects

Paul Gascoigne’s memoir “Eight” is set for release on October 23, providing fans and readers a deeper insight into his life, both on and off the pitch. Known for his candid storytelling, Gascoigne aims to shed light on the complexities of his life, marked by both triumph and tragedy.