Tom Brady takes subtle dig at Gisele Bundchen in letter: ‘Bedtime stories aren’t the only way to parent’
NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Tom Brady appears to be taking a subtle swipe at his ex-wife, supermodel Gisele Bundchen, in his latest newsletter reflecting on fatherhood and career.
The former NFL star, who famously unretired from football before their split, suggested that his dedication to the sport was part of being a good parent, comments that many are interpreting as a response to past criticisms from Bundchen.
Brady and Bundchen ended their 13-year marriage in October 2023, just months after his decision to return to the field sparked tension. Following the breakup, Bundchen had voiced her frustration over Brady’s relentless focus on football, saying it came at the expense of family life, a sentiment echoed in multiple interviews.
Tom Brady reflects on fatherhood in his recent newsletter
In a recent newsletter to his fans, Tom Brady reflected on fatherhood and his football career, saying he believes his dedication to the game was an essential part of being a good parent.
The 47-year-old former quarterback emphasized that setting an example through hard work and commitment was his way of providing for and teaching his three children. Brady is a father to three children: Jack, whom he shares with ex-girlfriend, Bridget Moynahan, and Benjamin, 15, and Vivian, whom he shares with ex-wife, Bundchen.
"I think part of being a great father is being a great example of doing what it takes to take care of your family," Brady wrote. "I chose to do it by playing football."
He elaborated further, explaining that the long hours of training and intense focus weren’t just about winning games; they were about showing his children what it means to pursue excellence, follow through on commitments, and value hard work.
He explained, "My dedication to the sport, the hours of practice, the moments when I was laser focused - those were times when I believe I was doing the best possible thing for my family and my kids, by prioritizing my profession and teaching, by example, what it takes to be really good at your job, what it takes to follow through on commitments, what it takes to be a great teammate; and showing them, also by example, that work is a big part of all of our lives."
Meanwhile, Bundchen had previously voiced her concerns about Brady’s continued involvement in such a physically demanding sport. In a 2022 interview with Elle, she admitted she had urged him to retire, citing concerns for his health and a desire for him to be more present at home.
"Obviously, I have my concerns - this is a very violent sport, and I have my children and I would like him to be more present," she said. "I have definitely had those conversations with him over and over again. But ultimately, I feel that everybody has to make a decision that works for (them). He needs to follow his joy, too."
Tom Brady says parenting is more than just obvious gestures
Throughout his career, Tom Brady often expressed appreciation for Gisele Bundchen’s role in keeping their family grounded. Back in October 2021, he acknowledged her sacrifices on his 'Let’s Go' podcast, saying, “My wife has held down the house for a long time now, and I think there’s things that she wants to accomplish.”
In his recent newsletter, Brady reflects further on fatherhood, emphasizing that parenting is about more than just the obvious gestures. “Remember, your children are watching everything. They see what you do in every aspect of your life and how you do it,” he wrote. "Reading bedtime stories and helping them with homework are not the only ways to be a great parent. And neither is winning Super Bowls or MVPs."
He continued, “Being a great football player didn’t make me a great dad, but how I became a great player certainly had an impact - from showing up day in and day out, to doing whatever it took to get better, be successful, be a role model, and to provide.”
Tom Brady’s comments about parenting spark debate online
After Tom Brady shared his perspective on parenting years after his divorce from ex-wife Gisele Bundchen, fans and social media users were quick to respond with their thoughts online.
One user wished, “I wish he was my dad when growing up. Some women want everything and then it’s still not enough and she’s one of them.”
A person sarcastically said, “It will be interesting to see what his kids become. Will they attempt to make an impact in the world or will they become just another set of lazy nepo babies living off the income and work of their parents?”
One user praised, “Beautifully pointing out his philosophy of being a dad and work.”
Another commenter mocked Brady’s idea of parenting, “Lol, so he was caring for his kids by being obsessed with football and prioritizing above all else? Um ok. At least be honest with yourself. You did it for you. They happened to be there. If you were doing it for them you could have been an offensive coordinator for Alabama and taught them with it takes to be the best while still being present. Cmon man.”
A user disagreed by dubbing, “Lying absent father,” while another chimed in, “He prioritized his fame over his family.”
A fan of Brady explained, “Let the man be a warrior, a Gladiator and he was chasing a dream and providing for generations of his family to come. He is the Goat and his knows it.”
One more fan elaborated, “Athletes love competition. It is what drives them. He was one of the best competitive people on this planet. She didn’t get it and probably never will.”
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