Aaron Rodgers launched a fierce attack on media speculation about his recent marriage during an appearance on ESPN's The Pat McAfee Show on Tuesday, condemning what he called society's "sick" obsession with his personal life.
The 41-year-old quarterback, who recently signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers, expressed his fury at public curiosity about his wife and their relationship. "It's a sick society, isn't it? It's a sick society," Rodgers said during the broadcast.
He particularly criticised what he perceived as public entitlement to information about his marriage, calling it "so f*****g ridiculous and embarrassing." The NFL star urged people to "stop making s**t up" about his private life.
Rodgers revealed that his wife, identified as Brittani, actively avoids public attention and has no social media presence. "Didn't want that. Didn't like any of that," he said, referring to the scrutiny that accompanied his previous relationships.
Aaron Rodgers has signed a one year deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers
Reuters
The quarterback's romantic history includes high-profile partnerships with actress Shailene Woodley, to whom he was engaged, as well as relationships with actress Olivia Munn and racing driver Danica Patrick.
He defended his wife's right to privacy, stating she "didn't sign up to be a celebrity" and "doesn't want to be a part of it." Rodgers insisted that any future public appearances would be entirely her choice, declaring he has no plans to post about their relationship on social media.
: NBA star James Harden faces negligence accusation as in nephew's alleged sexual assault lawsuit
In a particularly revealing moment, Rodgers disclosed that he maintains no contact with his own family and they remain unaware of his marriage. "They wouldn't know any information about me," Rodgers said bluntly about his relatives.
The quarterback's estrangement from his family appears complete, with Rodgers confirming "I don't talk to" them when discussing their lack of knowledge about his wife or wedding.
: Lewis Hamilton opens up on 'romantic feelings' after major life decision
Aaron Rodgers was previously with the New York Jets and struggled
Reuters
He also dismissed speculation that he might not "even have a wife," rejecting suggestions that his marriage announcement was an "attention-grabbing thing."
The NFL star pushed back against rumours questioning the legitimacy of his relationship, though he remained adamant about keeping details private.
:
Rodgers made clear his intentions to withdraw from public life once his one-year contract with the Steelers concludes.
"When this is all done, I'm out," he declared. "You won't see me."
The quarterback acknowledged he has "chosen to be in the public eye for one more season" but emphasised his determination to keep personal matters private during this period.
Aaron Rodgers doesn't want the public to know anything about his personal life
Getty
He concluded the interview with a direct challenge to the sports media, asking them to exclude him from coverage until training camp begins in July.
"Try and leave me out of a conversation, sports world, for a month," Rodgers said.
"My personal life. My professional life. Try not to talk about me."