Image Source: Getty / Gilbert Flores / Variety
Tom Brady had love on the brain this Valentine’s Day. On Feb. 14, the retired quarterback marked the holiday by sharing an unexpected quote to his Instagram Stories. “Love is not a transaction. It is a certain exuberance and sweetness of your emotion,” read the quote, attributed to Indian spiritual leader Sadhguru. The words were set against a pale backdrop adorned with watercolor hearts in various shades of pink and red.
“Love is not a transaction. It is a certain exuberance and sweetness of your emotion.”
While the cryptic message came across as uplifting to some, others took a moment to contexualize its meaning in relation to Brady’s recent divorce from Gisele Bündchen. The former couple married in 2009, and following public speculation about their relationship, they confirmed their divorce in October 2022.
“In recent days, my wife and I finalized our divorce from one another after 13 years of marriage,” Brady wrote on his Instagram Stories following the announcement. “We arrived at this decision amicably and with gratitude for the time we spent together. We are blessed with beautiful and wonderful children who will continue to be the center of our world in every way. We will continue to work together as parents to always ensure they receive the love and attention they deserve.”
Brady and Bündchen have ceased to appear on each other’s social media accounts since the divorce, but they seem to be on good terms. “Wishing you only wonderful things in this new chapter of your life,” Bündchen said when Brady announced his retirement from the NFL on Feb. 1. The day before, on Jan. 31, Brady made his first red carpet appearance since the split at the “80 For Brady” premiere in Los Angeles.
The athlete dedicated the rest of his Valentine’s Day IGS to sharing photos of his three children surrounded by heart emoji. He and Bündchen share 13-year-old Benjamin and 10-year-old Vivian. Brady also coparents 15-year-old Jack, who he shares with his ex Bridget Moynahan.
On her own Instagram account, Bündchen spread the love with photos of herself and her two dogs. “Pure love!! I am convinced they are little angels on Earth,” she wrote. “Happy Valentine’s Day to all!”
Image Source: Instagram user tombrady