Tennis champion Sloane Stephens and her husband, former soccer star Jozy Altidore, have decided to end their marriage after four years. In an emotional Instagram post shared on February 21, Stephens, 32, announced, “Jozy and I have decided to end our marriage. With peace, I am navigating this transition with mutual respect and kindly ask for privacy during this time.”
She expressed gratitude for the support she has received, thanking her fans for their love and understanding. Altidore, 36, who has not publicly commented on their separation, retired from professional soccer in 2023 but had previously remarked on how their marriage impacted both his personal and athletic life.
Stephens and Altidore’s relationship began in 2016. Their paths crossed again through a chance encounter at a national team camp while they were both pursuing their respective sports. Altidore recounted the moment in a 2022 interview with Vogue, describing how they exchanged contact information and connected over dinner shortly after their initial meeting.
The couple became engaged in 2019, with Stephens recalling the surreal moment when Altidore proposed. They married on New Year’s Day in 2022 at the St. Regis in Bal Harbour, Florida, viewing their wedding as a fresh start for a new year. Stephens had previously shared how the pandemic had shifted their wedding planning dynamics, leading to a celebration that emphasized cherishing loved ones during difficult times.
In interviews following their marriage, both Stephens and Altidore acknowledged the influence of their partnership on their careers. Altidore stated that marriage had challenged him to evolve personally and professionally, crediting Stephens for inspiring him to maintain focus and a positive mindset.
While the separation marks the end of their marriage, both athletes have expressed personal growth during their time together, demonstrating the impact love and support can have in high-pressure careers. As they navigate this new chapter, they continue to emphasize mutual respect and the lasting memories of their journey together.