Danielle Lloyd, former WAG and ex-wife of footballer Jamie O'Hara, has spoken candidly about the pressures of being married to a professional athlete as the World Cup approaches. The 42-year-old, who was married to the former Tottenham Hotspur player from 2012 to 2014, also had relationships with strikers Teddy Sheringham and Jermain Defoe. Now happily married to electrician Michael O'Neill, with whom she shares eight-year-old Ronnie and four-year-old Autumn, Danielle reflects on her WAG days and offers advice to the current squad's partners.
The Challenges of Being a WAG
Danielle explains that the WAGs will be feeling both excitement and nervousness as their partners compete on the world stage. She highlights the difficulty of being constantly photographed, saying, "In general, it's difficult being pictured. It's a lot of pressure having to look nice all the time. You have to think about what you're saying and what you're doing, because you're representing the country. The attention is taken off the pitch and on to the girls."
Dealing with Scrutiny and Trolling
England midfielder Declan Rice's girlfriend, Lauren Fryer, has faced cruel comments about her appearance. Danielle reached out to her, stating, "She's such a lovely person – no woman should have to go through that. It's absolutely disgusting. It's crazy, because what's it got to do with the game?" Danielle herself has endured online abuse, recalling, "I've been called a whale, I've been called everything. When I'd just had a baby and I was in a bikini on a beach, someone said, 'Look at that washed-up whale.' That really hurt me at that time, it really affected me mentally, but now I'm in such a strong place."
Advice for the Current WAGs
Danielle advises the WAGs to "be confident in your own skin – whatever your shape or size. As you get older, you realise material things don't matter, it's about making memories." She notes that while there is competition among the group, it's not as dramatic as portrayed on TV. "Back in the day it was like, 'Who has the biggest house? Who has the best handbag?' I look back and cringe!"
Potential Stars Among the WAGs
Danielle believes some WAGs could forge their own careers, mentioning Ellie Watkins, wife of striker Ollie Watkins. "I really like Ellie Watkins. I know people that know her, and she comes across as really nice. He came from a lower league and made it in the Premiership."
The Hardest Part of Being a Footballer's Wife
Danielle reveals that the most challenging aspect is dealing with the lows after the highs. "When they retire, that's when the pressure starts because they've known nothing else but football. It's hard for the footballer, but it's hard on the wife as well." She also acknowledges the female attention players receive, adding, "You have to have trust."
Health Scare and Moving Forward
Danielle recently faced a skin cancer scare, with a melanoma near her lymph nodes. "It was a really scary time, but my husband was so supportive. It can happen to anyone." She is now in good health and focusing on her family, confirming she is done having children: "Absolutely not. I'm done. I'll have to wait for grandkids now!"
