Larry Fitzgerald Wife?, one of the NFL’s greatest wide receivers, has never been married. Despite his successful career on the field, his personal life has been a subject of curiosity for many fans. This article delves into Larry Fitzgerald’s relationships, family, and personal life, shedding light on the women who’ve been part of his journey.
Who is Larry Fitzgerald?
Larry Fitzgerald Jr. is a former American football player born on August 31, 1983, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He played as a wide receiver for the Arizona Cardinals in the NFL for an impressive 17 seasons. Fitzgerald’s career was marked by numerous awards and honors, including 11 Pro Bowl selections and a spot on the NFL 100 All-Time Team.
Throughout his career, Fitzgerald set several records and achieved remarkable milestones. He finished his career ranking second in NFL history in receiving yards (17,492) and receptions (1,432), and sixth in career receiving touchdowns. These accomplishments solidified his status as one of the greatest receivers in NFL history.
Larry Fitzgerald’s Relationships
Melissa Blakesley
Melissa Blakesley was Larry Fitzgerald’s most recent long-term partner. Born on May 20, 1979, in Illinois, she’s known as a fashion expert and social media influencer. Melissa and Larry were in an on-and-off relationship from 2010 to 2020. Despite their long-term involvement, they never tied the knot.
The couple’s relationship was quite public, with the pair often spotted at various events. They shared many moments on social media, giving fans glimpses into their life together. However, their relationship wasn’t without its challenges. In 2018, rumors of their separation began to circulate, and they were seen less frequently in public and on social media.
Melissa and Larry welcomed a son together, Apollo Fitzgerald, on April 23, 2013. Despite having a child and being together for a decade, they ultimately parted ways in 2020.
Angela Nazario
Before Melissa, Larry was involved with Angela Nazario, a former Las Vegas Raiders cheerleader. Their relationship began in 2006 when Larry was just 22, and Angela was 35. Though their time together was brief, it resulted in the birth of Larry’s first son, Devine Fitzgerald.
Unfortunately, their relationship ended on a sour note. Angela accused Larry of domestic violence and filed for an order of protection against him. This legal battle unfolded just a year before the Arizona Cardinals’ 2009 Super Bowl appearance, causing some controversy in Larry’s personal life.
Larry Fitzgerald’s Children
Larry Fitzgerald is a proud father of two sons:
- Devine Fitzgerald (mother: Angela Nazario)
- Apollo Fitzgerald (mother: Melissa Blakesley)
Despite the challenges in his relationships, Larry has maintained a close bond with both of his children.
Larry Fitzgerald’s Personal Life
Early Life and Family
Larry grew up in a sports-loving family in Minneapolis. His father, Larry Fitzgerald Sr., is a well-known sports journalist who has covered over 30 Super Bowls[10]. Larry credits his father for teaching him and his younger brother, Marcus Fitzgerald (also a professional footballer), the mental aspects of the game from a young age.
Larry was particularly close to his mother, Carol Fitzgerald. Tragically, she passed away in 2003 due to a brain hemorrhage while being treated for breast cancer. Her death had a profound impact on Larry, who was in college at the time[10]. In her memory, Larry maintains his distinctive hairstyle, as his mother also wore dreadlocks.
Larry Fitzgerald Sr. played a crucial role in shaping his son’s career. He hired Larry Jr.’s entire management team, including his agent, attorney, accountant, financial adviser, and real estate agent. This careful management helped Larry Jr. navigate the early years of his NFL career successfully.
The Larry Fitzgerald Foundation
In 2005, Larry founded The Larry Fitzgerald Foundation in honor of his late mother. The foundation focuses on two main areas: youth education and breast cancer support[4]. Through this organization, Larry continues to expand his philanthropic efforts, fostering relationships with corporate partners to advance education and technology in underserved communities.
The foundation’s work has been recognized for its impact. In 2024, it was honored with the Arizona State University MLK Jr. Community Servant-Leadership Award. This recognition highlights the foundation’s commitment to providing equitable access and new pathways for success for underrepresented communities.
Career Highlights
Larry Fitzgerald’s NFL career was nothing short of spectacular. Here are some of his notable achievements:
- Played 17 seasons with the Arizona Cardinals
- 11-time Pro Bowler
- Named to the NFL 100 All-Time Team
- Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award winner in 2016
- Finished his career ranking second in NFL history in receiving yards (17,492) and receptions (1,432)
Fitzgerald’s college career was equally impressive. At the University of Pittsburgh, he was widely considered one of the best wide receivers in college football from 2002 to 2003[7]. His performance in the 2003 season was particularly noteworthy, with multiple games of over 100 receiving yards and multiple touchdowns.
Life After Football
Since retiring from the NFL, Larry has transitioned into various roles. He became an analyst for ESPN’s Monday Night Countdown show. He’s also become involved in various business ventures and continues his philanthropic work through his foundation.
In 2020, Fitzgerald became a minority owner of the Phoenix Suns of the National Basketball Association (NBA). This move showcases his interest in sports beyond football and his business acumen.
Larry’s Minnesota Connection
Despite spending most of his professional career in Arizona, Larry Fitzgerald maintains a strong connection to his home state of Minnesota. He spends significant time there during the NFL offseason, often hosting workouts for other NFL players at the University of Minnesota.
Fitzgerald’s love for Minnesota goes beyond just visiting. He owns a house on a lake in the state, where he enjoys water activities and spending time with friends and family. This retreat allows him to reconnect with his roots and spend time with people who knew him before his NFL fame.
His connection to Minnesota also extends to his fandom. Fitzgerald has admitted to still being a Vikings fan, having grown up supporting the team. He says, “Growing up in Minnesota, it’s second nature.” This admission shows the deep-rooted connection he maintains with his home state, even after years of playing for another team.
Conclusion
While Larry Fitzgerald has never had a wife in the traditional sense, his relationships with Melissa Blakesley and Angela Nazario have played significant roles in shaping his personal life. Despite the challenges he’s faced off the field, Larry remains committed to his children and continues to make a positive impact through his charitable work.
Larry Fitzgerald’s story is a reminder that even sports icons face personal challenges. His dedication to his family, particularly his sons, and his commitment to honoring his mother’s memory through philanthropy, showcase a man who’s much more than just a football legend.
Fitzgerald’s journey from a young boy in Minnesota to an NFL superstar and philanthropist is a testament to his character and the values instilled in him by his parents. His continued connection to his roots, both through his foundation’s work and his personal time spent in Minnesota, shows that success hasn’t changed his core values.
As Larry Fitzgerald moves into the next phase of his life post-NFL, it’s clear that his impact will continue to be felt both on and off the field. Whether it’s through his work with the Larry Fitzgerald Foundation, his business ventures, or his role as a sports analyst, Fitzgerald continues to inspire and make a difference in the lives of others.
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