After earning his 50th cap for Ireland against South Africa in the World Cup, Bundee Aki couldn’t help but express his gratitude, especially to the woman who’s been by his side throughout it all.
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“It’s an absolute honour when you are able to put on this special jersey for the first time, then to do it 50 times is something I never thought I could do,” wrote the centre.
Aki was quick to thank his team and the Irish fans for their unwavering support, but it was his wife, Kayla, who received the most love. “I can’t thank this team and country enough for their love and support. More importantly, I want to thank my wife @kayla.aki_ – you already know I wouldn’t have made it without you. I love you.”
The pair’s bond is a special one. In 2018, Bundee and Kayla returned to New Zealand to marry surrounded by family and friends. But the couple’s commitment to each other went beyond their wedding day. Kayla, ever supportive, was happy to delay their honeymoon so her husband could focus on his rugby commitments right after their marriage.
The couple has also shared tender moments as parents. After a challenging experience with their first child, Kayla opted for home births for their following children. When their youngest, Ailbhe, was born, Bundee posted a heartwarming picture of the newborn, swaddled and snug.
“As a father, it feels great and immensely special to have another blessing,” Bundee wrote in the caption. “It’s you, my wife Kayla, who has given me this opportunity of being a happy and joyful father. You have proven yet again that you are specially made for me. I love you.”
In July, as their eldest daughter, Armani-Jade, celebrated her sweet 16th birthday back in New Zealand, Bundee reflected on the distance between them, sharing a message full of love.
“Happy sweet 16th to my baby girl,” he wrote. “Only He will know how much I love you and miss you. [I] hope you had a day full of joy and laughter.”
The proud Rugby WAGs who’ll cheer on England this Autumn – including model, clothing store owner and restauranteur
When England’s Rugby team clashes with New Zealand in the Autumn Nations Series opener, all eyes won’t just be on the players.
Off the field, the players’ wives and girlfriends (rugby WAGs) are a source of strength and style, with a few glamorous details of their own.
Katie George – Jamie George’s Partner in Life
Katie and Jamie George have been a power couple for years. The Saracens hooker wed Katie in 2020 after six years of dating, with teammate Elliot Daly standing as best man. Their love story is a strong one, showing a deep bond and unwavering support for each other.
Mimi Fall – Maro Itoje’s Fiancée
The towering Maro Itoje recently put a ring on it! The 30-year-old popped the question on a holiday to Nigeria, and his now-fiancée, Mimi Fall, said yes.
Known for being private, Maro shared the news with fans through Mimi’s Instagram, where England teammate Marcus Smith was quick to congratulate the happy couple.
Mimi is not only a model but also an artist, and she and Maro first met while modelling together.
Megan Slade – Henry Slade’s Wife and Businesswoman
Henry Slade and his wife, Megan, tied the knot in 2022, and they share two beautiful children.
Megan runs a children’s fashion line, Olive & Bud, known for high-quality basics with soft, earthy color palettes, co-founded with another new mum.
This Devon-based brand is gaining popularity, and Megan is as hands-on in her business as she is with her family.
Atdhetare Hoxha – George Ford’s Resilient Partner
England fly-half George Ford is riding high in life, not only on the field but also at home, with his wife Atdhetare and their new baby.
Atdhetare has an inspiring journey, arriving in the UK as a child refugee from Kosovo. Driven by passion, she opened her own Italian restaurant, Sorella, in Saddleworth in 2020, bringing her love for food to life after overcoming a challenging past.
Her resilience is a source of strength for George.
Beth Dolling – Marcus Smith’s Glamorous Girlfriend
The Harlequins fly-half Marcus Smith has been dating model and singer Beth Dolling since 2019, and the pair regularly give fans a glimpse into their romance on social media.
Beth, who’s worked with M MODELS MANAGEMENT and appeared in campaigns for PrettyLittleThing, has over 35,000 followers on Instagram.
She’s also an aspiring singer, sharing clips of her vocals on a separate Instagram account, described simply as “Just some girl that likes to sing.”
