Former American race car driver Danica Patrick recently shared that her breakup with famous American football player Aaron Rodgers in 2020 was the toughest experience of her life. She described their relationship as “emotionally abusive,” which left her feeling very low. While she felt lost during that time, she also believes it helped her discover her own strength and needs.
Danica Patrick Opens Up About Her Relationship with Aaron Rodgers
American sports star Danica Patrick has spoken about the deep pain she felt after her split from well-known American football quarterback Aaron Rodgers. During a chat on “The Sage Steele Show” on May 21, 2025, Patrick, who used to be a big name in NASCAR racing, said that their relationship was “emotionally abusive” and it “wore me down to nothing.”
She explained that their breakup in 2020 was very sudden and hit her hard because “it felt like it was my life. So when you live with somebody, it’s your whole life…” She added that the “emotionally abusive” nature of their time together made her lose her confidence completely. “Someone that you know, people could never imagine that I would lack any confidence, or belief in the simple things about who I am. Everything was torn to bits. He leaves a trail of blood.”
Despite the difficult experience, Patrick said it ultimately helped her. “But it gave me the greatest gift, which is myself. It gave me the greatest gift of how much I needed to show up for myself and take care of myself.”
Rodgers and Patrick ended their two-year relationship in July 2020. Patrick mentioned that she felt very lonely during their time together because she was “furthest from myself.”
After his relationship with Patrick, Rodgers went on to date actress Shailene Woodley, whom he met during the COVID-19 pandemic. They announced their engagement in February 2021 but reportedly broke up in April 2022. More recently, Rodgers revealed in December that he is in a relationship with a woman named Brittani and has been seen wearing what looks like a wedding ring.
Danica Patrick also seems to have found love again, having shared a photo of herself kissing someone at the Burning Man festival in September. Before Rodgers, Patrick had other public relationships, including with Carter Comstock for about a year until March 2022, and with NASCAR driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr. from 2012 to 2017.
Local Relief Efforts:
While this news is about a personal story of a celebrity, it highlights the importance of mental well-being and seeking support during difficult times. In India, there are many organizations and helplines that offer support for individuals facing emotional distress or abusive relationships. These include helplines run by the government and various NGOs that provide counselling and assistance. It’s important for anyone facing such challenges to reach out for help.
Editor’s Note: This article has been adapted from an Associated Press news report published on May 23, 2025.
