Louis Rees-Zammit's Romantic Journey Amid Six Nations Comeback
Welsh rugby sensation Louis Rees-Zammit has made a highly anticipated return to the Six Nations stage this weekend, marking his first appearance in nearly three years. Despite Wales suffering a heavy 47-8 defeat to England in their opening match, Rees-Zammit found solace in the unwavering support of his American girlfriend, Drew Knotts. The couple met during his brief NFL stint in the United States, and Knotts has since relocated to Wales to be with her rugby star partner.
Current Flame: Drew Knotts
Rees-Zammit is currently in a committed relationship with Drew Knotts, a 27-year-old American influencer and former athlete. The pair have been spotted sharing glamorous moments in Dubai, from desert adventures to intimate dinners. Knotts, who creates lifestyle and fashion content, moved to Wales after Rees-Zammit joined the Bristol Bears, embracing the challenge of learning about rugby union.
In a recent interview, Rees-Zammit explained, "She doesn't have a clue what rugby is! When she saw that kind of environment, she really wanted to watch me play. It's something I can give her now—she'll learn from my family, the rules, and the crowd." He added that Knotts is moving permanently, navigating visa processes to settle into her new life in Wales.
Past Relationships: From YouTubers to Sports Icons
Prior to his relationship with Knotts, Rees-Zammit was romantically linked to several high-profile figures. Following the 2023 Rugby World Cup, he went public with YouTuber and former Strictly Come Dancing contestant Saffron Barker. Their whirlwind romance included public appearances and even Barker getting Rees-Zammit's initials tattooed on her arm. Despite his move to the NFL, they maintained a long-distance relationship until early 2024, when Barker announced their split, focusing on her wellbeing and career.
In 2024, Rees-Zammit was also photographed with Sports Illustrated swimsuit model Xandra Pohl at an amusement park in Kansas City, though nothing was officially confirmed. He acknowledged being "open to a relationship" with Pohl, who gained fame as a rookie in the magazine's 60th anniversary issue.
Early Romance: Alicia Scholes
Before Barker, Rees-Zammit dated netball player Alicia Scholes, daughter of Manchester United legend Paul Scholes. This relationship sparked a playful rivalry, as Paul Scholes tried to persuade Rees-Zammit to play for England instead of Wales. Born in Wales but qualifying for England due to his education at Hartpury College, Rees-Zammit ultimately declined the offer.
Reflecting on this, he told the BBC, "I used to date his daughter, so it was a running joke. He always tried to make me play for England, but I wasn't having any of it." This early romance highlights the intersection of sports and personal life in Rees-Zammit's journey.
Looking Ahead: Rugby and Relationships
As Rees-Zammit continues his Six Nations campaign with Wales, his personal life remains a topic of interest. With Knotts by his side, he balances the pressures of international rugby with the support of a partner eager to embrace his world. His past relationships with influencers, models, and sports icons' daughters underscore the high-profile nature of his romantic history, adding a layer of intrigue to his on-field performances.
This return to rugby union marks a new chapter, both professionally and personally, as he navigates the spotlight with resilience and dedication.
