JJ Watt, the formidable former NFL defensive end, has largely maintained a private stance regarding his personal life throughout his illustrious career. While many public figures navigate a series of high-profile relationships, Watt's romantic journey has been remarkably focused, culminating in a deeply cherished partnership that has captivated fans. His love story, characterized by a strong foundation and mutual respect, truly began to unfold in the public eye with his relationship with professional soccer star Kealia Ohai.
Before his relationship with Ohai, Watt's dating life remained largely out of the public spotlight. Despite his immense fame as a dominant force on the football field, he successfully kept any early romantic endeavors private, choosing to focus his public persona on his athletic achievements and philanthropic efforts. This discretion set the stage for a relationship that would eventually become very public, but only after a solid, private connection had been established.
Watt's path crossed with Kealia Ohai in 2016. Their initial connection was facilitated through a mutual and significant link: Kealia's brother-in-law is Brian Cushing, Watt's former Houston Texans teammate. Both being elite professional athletes—Watt in football and Ohai, a forward for the Houston Dash (at the time) and the U.S. Women's National Team, in soccer—they shared a unique understanding of the demands and pressures of their respective careers. This shared experience provided a strong foundation for their burgeoning romance.
The couple initially kept their relationship under wraps, navigating the early stages of their romance away from the intense media scrutiny that often follows high-profile athletes. It wasn't until 2017 that Watt publicly confirmed their relationship during an interview, stating, "I'm very happy. I've known Kealia for a long time." This announcement was met with enthusiasm by fans, who quickly embraced the athletic power couple. Their shared commitment to fitness, philanthropy, and competitive excellence made them a natural match in the public eye.
Their relationship continued to blossom, leading to a significant milestone in May 2019. Watt proposed to Ohai during a picturesque vacation, sharing the joyous news with fans through social media. The engagement photos, featuring Watt on one knee against a stunning sunset backdrop, quickly went viral, celebrating their commitment to each other. This public declaration of their intent to marry further solidified their status as one of sports' most beloved couples.
The couple exchanged vows in a beautiful ceremony in the Bahamas on February 15, 2020. The wedding, held at The Ocean Club, a Four Seasons Resort, was a star-studded affair attended by family, friends, and teammates from both the NFL and NWSL. Photos from the event showcased a joyous celebration, highlighting the deep affection and happiness shared between Watt and Ohai as they officially became Mr. and Mrs. Watt. Their wedding marked a significant chapter in their personal lives, uniting two prominent figures from the world of professional sports.
Following their marriage, the couple continued to be a beacon of mutual support, often seen cheering each other on at games and celebrating each other's professional achievements. Kealia Ohai, who later played for the Chicago Red Stars, continued her successful soccer career, while JJ Watt continued his dominant run in the NFL before announcing his retirement at the end of the 2022 season. Their partnership exemplified a true understanding of the sacrifices and dedication required for elite athletic careers.
A new and exciting chapter began for the Watts in June 2022 when they announced they were expecting their first child. Their son, Koa James Watt, was born on October 23, 2022, bringing immense joy to the family. Watt shared the news on social media, posting a heartwarming photo of the new family of three. The arrival of Koa further deepened their bond and shifted their focus to their growing family, even as Watt was nearing the end of his illustrious NFL career.
In the years since their marriage and the birth of their son, JJ and Kealia Watt have continued to present a united front, balancing their post-athletic careers, business ventures, and family life. They frequently share glimpses of their life together on social media, showcasing their enduring love and commitment. Their relationship stands as a testament to finding a partner who understands and supports the unique demands of a high-profile life, built on a foundation of shared values and deep affection. Their journey from private dating to a publicly celebrated marriage and family life exemplifies a modern love story rooted in genuine connection and mutual respect.