Tom Brady's New Romance Sparks Bitter Supermodel Feud and Broken Friendship
Tom Brady's new romance with supermodel Candice Swanepoel has shattered a 15-year friendship with Joan Smalls, who reportedly dated the NFL legend in the past. The bitter fallout has sparked an ultimatum among mutual acquaintances.
Tom Brady may have retired from football, but at 49 years old, the legendary quarterback continues to spark headlines far away from the NFL gridiron. The sports icon has found himself at the center of a bitter supermodel feud after it was revealed that his new romantic partner, Candice Swanepoel, was involved in a long-standing friendship with fellow supermodel Joan Smalls, who reportedly had a past relationship with Brady.
According to reports from Page Six, the romance between Brady and Swanepoel, both renowned Victoria's Secret models, shattered a friendship that had lasted for no less than 15 years. Sources indicate that Smalls is furious over the betrayal and has issued an ultimatum to mutual friends, demanding that they choose a side in the escalating conflict.
Insiders close to the situation claim that Smalls and Brady shared an on-and-off romantic connection for about a year. However, in recent months, the former NFL star shifted his attention to Swanepoel after the two met through mutual friends in May. The new couple has been spending time together in Miami, striving to keep their relationship out of the public eye.
The drama erupted publicly after Smalls reacted on social media to reports regarding the rupture. Screen grabs shared online show her labeling her former friend a "traitor" and decrying what she viewed as a severe violation of the unwritten code of female loyalty among friends.
"No loyalty among friends, no respect, lies and deception," Smalls allegedly wrote in comments that were later deleted. She further suggested that the 15-year bond is completely beyond repair, comparing the unfolding real-life drama to the reality television series Summer House, where a long-standing friendship fractured due to a secret romance.
Conversely, alternative accounts published by Page Six suggest that the relationship between Smalls and Brady was never particularly serious. Nevertheless, sources familiar with the matter maintain that Smalls views Swanepoel's actions as a deeply personal betrayal rather than simple romantic jealousy.
Representatives for 38-year-old Swanepoel addressed the controversy, stating that the model maintains her privacy, remains focused on raising her two sons, and respects the long-standing friendship she shared with Smalls. Representatives for Brady and Smalls declined to comment on the matter.
Brady, a seven-time Super Bowl champion, finalized his divorce from supermodel Gisele Bündchen in October 2022 after 13 years of marriage. Since his retirement, his name has been linked to several prominent figures, including Irina Shayk, Brooks Nader, and Kim Kardashian, though not all reports of his romantic entanglements have been officially confirmed.
