For nearly two decades, Gisele Bündchen was a fixture in the global spotlight, celebrated as a top supermodel and, for a significant part of that time, living under intense scrutiny as the wife of NFL legend Tom Brady. Following their high-profile split in 2022, the Brazilian icon deliberately stepped back, choosing to focus on her family, her healing journey, and her personal development. Now, reports suggest she is embracing a chapter of life that feels more authentically her own, thanks to her blossoming relationship with jiu-jitsu instructor Joaquim Valente and the arrival of their newborn child.
A Life Away from the Spotlight
According to insider reports cited by Page Six, Gisele often felt she was living in the shadow of her famous husband during her 13-year marriage to Tom Brady. While she has publicly expressed gratitude for their time together and the family they built, sources indicate her current life offers a different kind of fulfillment. Her romance with Joaquim Valente, which began quietly in 2023, is described as a key factor in this shift. It has allowed her to slow down, prioritize privacy, and concentrate on her family without the constant pressure that comes with being linked to a global sports icon.
The couple welcomed their first child together, a son, in February 2025. This marks Gisele's third child and Joaquim's first. Insiders close to the model say she is "absolutely loving this new chapter" and is excited about the future she is building. This new phase is defined by a sense of independence and emotional peace that reportedly eluded her in the past.
Navigating New Dynamics and Co-Parenting
Despite moving on, Gisele maintains a respectful relationship with Tom Brady, with both committed to co-parenting their two children, Benjamin and Vivian. The transition, however, came with its moments of surprise. Reports suggest Brady was initially taken aback by the news that Gisele was expecting a baby with Joaquim Valente. A source revealed, "It just wasn't something that was on his radar."
Nevertheless, the situation appears to have settled into a new normal. Recent speculation hints that Brady has since offered his congratulations to his ex-wife. Meanwhile, rumors swirl that Brady may be rekindling a past romance with model Irina Shayk, though these claims remain unconfirmed. The overall narrative points to both individuals learning to navigate their post-marriage lives separately yet amicably for the sake of their family.
Embracing Balance on Her Own Terms
For Gisele Bündchen, the journey after her divorce seems to have led to a profound sense of ease. Her life is no longer framed by the dazzling but demanding worlds of high fashion and professional football. Instead, it is centered on balance, cherished privacy, and love defined by her own choices. The supermodel, who once walked the world's most prestigious runways, now finds her greatest joy in the quieter, more intimate moments of motherhood and partnership.
This transformation highlights a powerful story of personal rediscovery. After years in the public eye, Gisele has successfully carved out a space that prioritizes her well-being and happiness. Her story resonates as one of finding strength and authenticity after a major life change, proving that sometimes, stepping out of a giant shadow can lead you into your own light.
