Supermodel Feud Erupts Over Tom Brady Romance, Friends Forced to Choose Sides
Victoria's Secret models Candice Swanepoel and Joan Smalls reportedly at odds over their connections to NFL star Tom Brady.
A rift has reportedly formed between Victoria's Secret supermodels Joan Smalls and Candice Swanepoel over their alleged romantic ties to NFL icon Tom Brady. Smalls, who is said to have dated Brady on and off, is reportedly incensed that Swanepoel is now romantically involved with the former quarterback. Sources suggest Swanepoel encouraged Smalls to end her relationship with Brady, only to pursue him herself.
The alleged feud between the two models, who have been friends for approximately 15 years, surfaced after they unfollowed each other on Instagram. In now-deleted comments on Smalls' Instagram page, she reportedly alluded to Swanepoel being a "backstabber" and breaking "girl code." One comment suggested a lack of "humility and moral compass" and expressed disappointment in the perceived disrespect and carelessness.
Brady, who split from his ex-wife Gisele Bundchen in October 2022, has reportedly been dating Swanepoel for some time. Despite the brewing conflict between the models, Bundchen reportedly has no issue with Brady's new relationship and does not view Swanepoel's involvement as a betrayal. Insiders told TMZ that Bundchen and Swanepoel were never close friends, and they have not been seen together in recent years.
Swanepoel and Brady have been linked since at least late 2026, with rumors of their relationship circulating prior to the reported fallout between the models. Swanepoel, who previously had a long-term relationship with Hermann Nicoli, became engaged to him in 2015 before their separation was confirmed three years later. Brady, a seven-time Super Bowl champion, has three children from previous relationships: Jack, 19, with Bridget Moynahan, and Benjamin, 16, and Vivian, 13, with Bundchen.