Footballers Who Abandoned Their Partners After Getting Famous

In the glamorous world of football, the journey from humble beginnings to global stardom can come with significant personal changes. However, some footballers have faced criticism for abandoning their partners after achieving fame. These stories have become notorious not only because of the breakup but also because of the emotional toll it takes on those who helped them along the way.

1. Cristiano Ronaldo and Irina Shayk

Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the most famous footballers globally, was in a high-profile relationship with Russian model Irina Shayk. The couple dated for five years before parting ways in 2015. While the reason for their breakup remains unclear, there were rumors that Ronaldo’s rise to fame and the pressures of his career played a role. Irina was often seen supporting Ronaldo through his career highs and lows, but after becoming more internationally recognized, their paths diverged.

2. Wayne Rooney and Coleen Rooney

Wayne Rooney’s rise to fame saw him secure a spot as one of the premier footballers of his generation, but it wasn’t without its challenges. While Coleen Rooney stood by Wayne during difficult times, including several public scandals, their relationship was tested by Wayne’s fame and his off-field distractions. Despite these struggles, Coleen has always remained supportive, though it’s been speculated that Wayne’s changing lifestyle, influenced by fame, led to tensions in their relationship.

3. Gerard Piqué and Shakira

Arguably one of the most talked-about splits in recent years, Gerard Piqué, the Barcelona legend, and Shakira, the global pop star, had a highly publicized breakup in 2022. The two were together for over a decade and share two children. Piqué, who was already a well-established footballer, saw his fame and fortune grow exponentially during their relationship. As Shakira’s star continued to rise, so did the strain on their relationship, with rumors of infidelity and Piqué’s changing priorities emerging. Ultimately, their split was bitter, with both parties heading in different directions professionally and personally.

4. David Beckham and Victoria Beckham

The marriage of David and Victoria Beckham was once considered one of the most solid in the world of celebrity couples. However, there were numerous reports about the pressures of fame affecting their relationship. David’s football career skyrocketed, and with it came the spotlight, which ultimately put a strain on their marriage. Despite rumors of affairs and a highly publicized lifestyle, Victoria stood by her husband, and the two have now managed to maintain a strong, albeit complex, relationship. Their story serves as a reminder that fame can often intensify the pressures on a relationship.

5. Kaka and Caroline Celico

Brazilian footballer Kaka, known for his success at both AC Milan and Real Madrid, married Caroline Celico in 2005. However, the couple’s marriage ended in 2015, with Kaka’s rising fame being speculated as a contributing factor. The couple met while Kaka was still on the rise, but as he became one of the most famous footballers in the world, their relationship faced increasing difficulties. They eventually announced their separation, with Kaka’s commitments and high-profile career possibly straining their connection.

6. Iker Casillas and Sara Carbonero

Spanish footballer Iker Casillas and journalist Sara Carbonero were one of the most admired couples in the sports world. However, despite their high-profile relationship, Iker’s fame after winning the World Cup with Spain in 2010 created distance between them. Though their relationship lasted for several years, they eventually announced their separation in 2021. The pressures of Iker’s celebrity status, along with Sara’s own career, may have contributed to the breakup.

The Price of Fame

The common thread in these stories is that fame, especially in football, often changes personal dynamics. What starts as a relationship built on love and mutual support can sometimes deteriorate under the weight of public attention, temptations, and lifestyle changes. While some couples weather the storm of fame, others fall apart. The consequences are not just emotional for the parties involved but also for their children, families, and fans who follow their journeys.

In the world of football, the lines between professional achievements and personal life often blur. Fame can be intoxicating, and for many, it brings not only wealth and accolades but also heartbreak and the loss of close personal connections.

These stories have sparked conversations about the impact of fame on relationships and whether athletes can maintain a healthy balance between their careers and their personal lives. For fans, these breakups become the fodder for endless gossip, and for the footballers involved, they serve as a reminder of the personal sacrifices made in the pursuit of fame.

Fame may elevate one’s status, but at what cost?