Pepe Reina, the charismatic Spanish goalkeeper, has enjoyed a long and distinguished career in football, but equally remarkable is his enduring romantic journey with his wife, Yolanda Ruiz. Their love story, spanning over two decades, began in the early 2000s and has since blossomed into a large, loving family, overcoming initial hurdles and personal challenges.
Their paths first crossed in 2001, when Reina was playing for Villarreal and Yolanda Ruiz, a former volleyball player, was based in Benicasim, Castellón. It was reportedly a case of love at first sight for the couple. However, their early relationship faced some resistance, particularly from Yolanda's father, who was initially opposed to their union. Despite this, their bond proved strong, and they persevered through these early challenges, building a foundation for their future together.
After several years of dating, Pepe Reina and Yolanda Ruiz tied the knot on May 19, 2006, in a ceremony held in Córdoba, just before Reina joined the Spanish national squad for the 2006 World Cup. Their marriage marked the beginning of a new chapter, one that would see them navigate the demands of a high-profile football career while building a family.
Early in their marriage, the couple reportedly faced medical advice suggesting it would be difficult for them to have children naturally due to a health issue Reina experienced. However, against these odds, their family grew significantly. They welcomed their first child, daughter Grecia, in 2007, followed by Alma in 2008. Their family continued to expand with the birth of their son Luca in 2011, another son Thiago in 2013, and their youngest daughter Sira in 2015. This journey of building a large family, despite initial medical concerns, has been a testament to their perseverance and dedication to each other.
Yolanda Ruiz has been a steadfast pillar of support throughout Reina's illustrious career, accompanying him as he moved between top clubs across Europe, including Liverpool, Napoli, Bayern Munich, AC Milan, and Villarreal. She has often been seen at matches, supporting him from the stands, and has also played a role in managing their shared business ventures, such as 'Grecia 25 S.L.', a company dedicated to the representation and advising of professional athletes.
The couple frequently shares glimpses of their family life on social media, showcasing their close-knit bond and the joy they find in their five children. Public appearances and interviews often highlight their mutual respect and affection. For instance, in a recent interview, Reina jokingly recalled a moment when Yolanda, while he was in Qatar, told him to "get a taxi and go to the hotel and shower, your daughter is about to be born," as he witnessed the birth of one of their children via FaceTime, illustrating their shared humor and resilience during challenging times.
Their relationship is often characterized by its stability and mutual support, with Yolanda being described as Reina's "great support and refuge." As Pepe Reina recently announced his retirement from professional football in May 2025, coinciding with their 19th wedding anniversary, the couple continues to embark on new phases of life together, with Yolanda by his side as he transitions into coaching. Their story is a public testament to a deep and enduring partnership, built on love, family, and shared experiences through the highs and lows of a public life.