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Gisele Bündchen, the renowned Brazilian supermodel and former spouse of NFL icon Tom Brady, has reportedly found love once again, this time with Joaquim Valente, a professional jiu-jitsu trainer and co-founder of a martial arts academy based in Miami.
Their romance, which commenced in June 2023, blossomed from a longstanding friendship. Here’s an insight into Bündchen’s new beau and their blossoming relationship.
Their Serendipitous Encounter
Bündchen and Valente crossed paths through their shared passion for jiu-jitsu, a martial art deeply rooted in Brazilian culture. In 2021, Bündchen and her son Benjamin, aged 13, joined Valente’s classes at the esteemed Valente Brothers academy in Miami.
Impressed by Valente’s teaching methodology and the academy’s affiliation with the illustrious Gracie family, Bündchen forged a friendship with Valente, extending their interactions beyond the studio.
Their bond flourished during shared escapades to Costa Rica, where they were often seen jogging and dining alongside Bündchen’s children, Benjamin and Vivian, aged 10. Valente emerged as a pillar of support during Bündchen’s divorce from Brady, offering solace and companionship during her tumultuous times.
From Friendship to Romance
Sources close to the couple reveal that Bündchen and Valente’s platonic relationship evolved into romance following her divorce. Although they’ve opted to keep their budding romance discreet, the duo is reportedly relishing their time together.
Bündchen’s guarded approach stems from her protective stance towards her personal life and her children. Nonetheless, sources affirm that the couple shares profound compatibility, grounded in shared values, backgrounds, and interests.
“They started out as friends. He was a huge comfort for Gisele while she went through her divorce. Their friendship turned romantic after the divorce,” a source disclosed to People. Describing Valente as down-to-earth, kind, and inspirational, the source expressed Bündchen’s contentment with their blossoming romance.
Meet Joaquim Valente
Joaquim Valente, a 38-year-old jiu-jitsu instructor and entrepreneur, hails from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. At the age of 15, Valente relocated to Miami with his family, where he, along with his brothers Pedro and Gui, founded the Valente Brothers academy in 1993. Renowned for its excellence, the academy stands as a beacon in the world of jiu-jitsu, boasting over 1,000 students and branches worldwide.
Valente, a black belt in jiu-jitsu, has garnered acclaim through his triumphs in numerous national and international tournaments. Moreover, as a certified instructor of the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Self-Defense Program, he is dedicated to imparting the virtues of jiu-jitsu as not just a sport, but also a way of life.
A devoted father to his daughters Sofia and Isabella from a previous marriage, Valente treasures family bonds and often shares glimpses of his personal life on social media. With over 100,000 followers on Instagram, he showcases his passion for jiu-jitsu, nature, music, and more.
What Lies Ahead for the Couple?
While Bündchen and Valente have yet to publicly affirm their relationship, sightings by paparazzi and subtle hints on social media hint at their blossoming romance.
Taking their time to savor each moment, the couple refrains from rushing into marriage or expanding their family, preferring to focus on their respective careers and existing familial ties. Nevertheless, their commitment to one another and shared excitement for the future signal a promising journey ahead.
“Gisele and Joaquim are very much in love. They have a lot of respect and admiration for each other. They are not putting any pressure on themselves or their relationship. They are just living in the moment and having fun,” a source conveyed to InStyle. With hearts full of love and anticipation, the couple eagerly awaits the adventures that lie ahead.
