Jobaaj Stories
🏉 Jonny Wilkinson: From Rugby Legend to Private Family Man
Jonny Wilkinson, renowned for his pivotal role in England's 2003 Rugby World Cup victory, has transitioned from a celebrated sports career to a life marked by privacy and introspection. Beyond his on-field achievements, Wilkinson's personal journey, including his relationships and family life, offers a compelling narrative.
💔 Relationship with Diana Stewart
In the early 2000s, Wilkinson was in a relationship with Sky Sports presenter Diana Stewart. Their three-year relationship concluded in 2005, attributed to their demanding careers and Wilkinson's injury struggles. Despite the separation, they maintained a supportive friendship. Stewart remarked, "We are not in a relationship at the moment, but we are still very close. Jonny and I speak every day, but the two of us have a lot of things going on in our lives."
💍 Private Wedding to Shelley Jenkins
Wilkinson met Shelley Jenkins in 2005 while she was working as a waitress in Majorca. After eight years together, they married in a private ceremony on October 21, 2013, in Bandol, France. The intimate wedding was attended by only two guests, including Wilkinson's mother. The ceremony was officiated by Bandol's mayor, Christian Palix, who noted, "He is an iconic figure in the sporting world and someone with great human qualities."
👶 Parenthood and Personal Reflections
In 2018, the couple welcomed their son, James. Wilkinson has been candid about his mental health challenges during his rugby career, including perfectionism and self-criticism. He expressed hopes that his son would not inherit these traits, stating, "I would hope to high heaven that if I had a boy, he would not get, or have, the same mindset I had. A lot of the pressure of my career I put on myself. It was hell a lot of the time."
💷 Net Worth and Post-Rugby Endeavors
Wilkinson's dedication to rugby and subsequent ventures have resulted in an estimated net worth of £22 million. Post-retirement, he has engaged in punditry, brand endorsements, and authored books, solidifying his financial standing.
