Tom Brady Reflects on Parenting Struggles, Admits He’s Made Mistakes
In a candid moment at the Fortune Global Forum in New York City on November 12, Tom Brady opened up about the complexities of being a father to his three children. The seven-time Super Bowl champion acknowledged the unique challenges his kids face as they navigate life in his monumental shadow. “It probably sucks to be Tom Brady’s son,” he commented, highlighting the weight of expectation tied to his illustrious NFL career.
Brady’s reflections came as he considered the pressures his children will face as they grow up. He mentioned, “There’s a lot of challenges I faced as a kid, and my kids will have to confront their own challenges too.” He stressed that he will support them while learning alongside them during their journeys.
The father of three, including son Jack, 17, with ex Bridget Moynahan, and sons Benjamin, 14, and daughter Vivian, 11, with ex-wife Gisele Bündchen, emphasized the importance of encouragement in pursuing one’s passions. For instance, Jack’s aspirations to play basketball were met with Brady’s light-hearted joke about his son’s jumping abilities, but he expressed unwavering support for Jack’s dreams.
Brady recounted how his parents instilled a sense of belief in him, allowing him the space to chase his aspirations even when success seemed uncertain. He aims to replicate this approach with his children. “Whatever our kids choose, we need to support them,” he remarked. He reassured Jack that he believes in his potential, saying, “You’re gonna be a stud. Wait until you hit your growth spurt.”
However, Brady didn’t shy away from admitting his own shortcomings as a parent. “I’ve screwed up a lot over the years,” he confessed, but he strives to be a reliable and consistent presence in their lives. He noted that despite the complexities that come with their family dynamics, his focus has always been to prioritize the well-being of his kids.
As for his previous relationships, Brady shared insights about co-parenting Jack with Moynahan, emphasizing that their son’s well-being has always been paramount. Meanwhile, he also addressed the recent news regarding Bündchen’s pregnancy with her new partner, expressing surprise yet happiness for her. An insider revealed that Gisele communicated the news to Brady before it was public, ensuring he was aware as their children might share the news with him.
Brady’s reflections capture the essence of navigating parenthood amidst personal challenges and public scrutiny, illustrating the ongoing evolution of his relationship with his children as they grow and develop their own identities.