Fashion influencer and the wife of former AFL star Jimmy Bartel has broken her silence on the couple’s split, confirming the father of her children is now dating another woman, blonde Melbourne socialite Lauren Brand.
It’s believed Nadia found out about the new relationship via text message.
While rumours of the split have been circling for a week, this is the first time the 34-year-old has publicly acknowledged her husband’s new romance, revealing she is “heartbroken”.
Last week, the pair unfollowed each other on Instagram and have both been spotted out and about without their wedding rings, while friends of Nadia’s have confirmed she found out about Jimmy’s new romance with the UK-based Lauren Brand by looking at their text messages on his phone.
It’s believed Jimmy spent time with his new woman when he flew to London six weeks ago, and Nadia and Jimmy, who have been together for a decade, separated when he returned to Australia and he moved out of the family home.
Nadia and Jimmy have two sons, Henley, 10 months, and Aston, three.
Jimmy and Nadia looking downcast at the Australian Open earlier this year.
(Image: Getty Images)
Jimmy has moved out of the family home.
(Image: Getty Images)“It’s been a very difficult month for me and the boys,” Nadia told The Herald Sun today.
“Although I’m heartbroken, I don’t want to comment specifically on what’s been reported about Jim’s trip to the UK as I don’t think that is in anyone’s interests.
“My single focus now is to continue to protect, care and provide for my two beautiful boys as this is a personal matter. I am so thankful for my very supportive family and friends.”
Jimmy’s new girlfriend Lauren Brand is based in the UK.
(Image: Instagram)
A glamorous selfie from Lauren’s Instagram account.
(Image: Instagram)Jimmy also commented on the split on the weekend.
“It’s not great, but I am probably not going to provide any commentary on it,” he said during Melbourne radio station 3AW’s pre-game AFL coverage.
“I know I am in the public eye and people are interested, but it is a private matter and I ask for a bit of respect because obviously Nadia and the boys (are) involved.
“I still enjoy coming to work and I love working with everybody in football. I love the game so I can’t see why I wouldn’t keep showing up for work.”
The Jackie O-lookalike is reportedly having a fling with the former AFL star.
(Image: Instagram)Last Thursday, Nadia posted a cryptic quote on her Instagram, which appeared to be directed at her close friends and family who are currently supporting her during the breakup.
“People who resonate with your energy will always be there. Y’all are on the same frequency you are aligned together. It’s a soul family. Know your members. You know who you are,” the post said, which has since been deleted.
Nadia and Jimmy married in February 2014 in a lavish Melbourne ceremony.
