As we approach the end of another busy week, it’s only fitting to acknowledge those who truly deserve recognition. Today, we spotlight Gisele Bündchen, our standout Winner of the Week.
While it’s clear that balancing a high-profile career and personal life postpartum is an extraordinary challenge-one that most of us can only imagine-Gisele Bündchen’s journey remains inspiring. Her story exemplifies what it means to prioritize self-care and family while maintaining professional momentum, and she’s doing so with remarkable grace.
To revisit recent events: Following her separation from NFL star Tom Brady, many speculated that her decision to re-engage with modeling and expand her entrepreneurial ventures-such as launching a cookbook and product lines-played a role in their split. However, her choice to step back from the runway to focus on raising her children, including Brady’s son from a previous relationship, was widely appreciated. Post-divorce, Bündchen resumed her modeling career with renewed vigor, often sharing glimpses of her life that resonate with many. Her return to the spotlight was celebrated as a move made purely for her own fulfillment.
Mario Sorrenti/Vogue France
When she announced her pregnancy with her current partner, Joaquim Valente, it was another moment that felt authentic-another “just for her” milestone. Yet, it naturally raised questions: Would she pause her career again to focus on her new baby? There’s no definitive answer, but her recent actions suggest she’s thriving amidst these changes. She graces the cover of Vogue France once more, embodying strength and serenity. And once again, we raise a toast-cheers to her resilience and authenticity.
In her own words, Bündchen shared during her June/July 2025 interview (translated from French): “I feel more confident in my own skin and have a clearer understanding of my priorities. I am grateful for where I am now. I believe I’ve earned this peace.” She added, “Now that my little one is sleeping through the night, I’m able to dedicate time to my routine. As any new mother knows, sleep-or the lack of it-can transform everything. But I am truly thankful for the opportunity to be present with my children and cherish every moment.”
Mario Sorrenti/Vogue France
Captured by the talented Mario Sorrenti, Bündchen appears calm and grounded, strolling through the water in flowing evening gowns, her hair tousled and face relaxed. The images evoke a sense of wellness rather than high fashion or swimwear-focusing on the theme of inner harmony. This shoot echoes her 2018 Vogue feature, which was more staged and artful. Today’s visuals, however, feel more natural-like a gentle embrace of the environment and her authentic self.
Details about her new baby remain private, but we know it’s a boy named River. Bündchen shared a tender moment on Mother’s Day via Instagram, writing, “I’ve been quiet here, but busy living life. Sometimes, the most meaningful moments aren’t shared-they’re simply experienced. Recently, I’ve been embracing slower rhythms, genuine connections, and the beauty that comes with patience and presence.”
This isn’t about projecting an idealized image of motherhood, modeling, or divorce. Instead, it’s a testament to the power of standing firm in your convictions-whatever they may be-and choosing authenticity over perfection. Bündchen’s journey reminds us that true strength lies in embracing life’s natural flow and making decisions rooted in personal truth.
