Former NFL superstar J.J. Watt is married to former professional soccer player Kealia Ohai Watt. While Watt is widely recognized as one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history, his wife has built an impressive athletic career of her own.
Kealia made her name in American soccer through standout performances at the collegiate, professional, and international levels before transitioning into family life and business ventures alongside her husband.
Today, the couple is admired not only for their successful sports careers but also for their growing family and shared investments outside athletics.
How They Met
J.J. Watt and Kealia Ohai began dating in 2016 after years of knowing each other through Houston’s professional sports community.
At the time, Watt was starring for the Houston Texans, while Kealia played for the Houston Dash in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). Their shared experiences as elite athletes created a strong foundation for their relationship.
Although both were well-known public figures, they kept much of their early romance private, allowing their relationship to develop away from constant media attention.
Over time, they became one of America’s most popular sports couples.
Engagement and Wedding
After dating for several years, J.J. Watt proposed to Kealia Ohai in May 2019.
The engagement was celebrated by fans across both football and soccer, with many congratulating the couple on social media.
They exchanged vows on February 15, 2020, during a beautiful destination wedding in the Bahamas. The ceremony featured close family members and friends in an intimate setting overlooking the ocean.
The wedding marked the beginning of a new chapter for two athletes who had already achieved remarkable success in their respective sports.
Kealia’s Soccer Journey
Long before becoming J.J. Watt’s wife, Kealia Ohai established herself as one of the most talented young soccer players in the United States.
She played college soccer at the University of North Carolina, where she helped the Tar Heels win an NCAA national championship.
Her outstanding performances made her one of the top prospects entering the professional ranks. In the 2014 NWSL Draft, she was selected as the No. 2 overall pick by the Houston Dash.
Joining Houston allowed her to become one of the franchise’s most recognizable players during its early years.
Success on the Field
Kealia’s professional career continued to flourish with the Houston Dash.
Known for her pace, attacking ability, and leadership, she eventually served as team captain and became an important figure within the organization.
Her performances also earned recognition at the international level.
Kealia represented the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT), fulfilling a lifelong dream of competing for her country alongside some of the world’s best players.
Her accomplishments across college, club, and international soccer established her as one of the respected athletes of her generation.
Growing Family
J.J. and Kealia Watt have embraced family life alongside their professional achievements.
In October 2022, they welcomed their first son, Koa James Watt.
The couple frequently shared joyful milestones from their parenting journey while continuing to maintain healthy boundaries around their children’s privacy.
Their family grew again in June 2025 with the arrival of their second son, Niko Benjamin Watt.
Becoming parents has remained one of the most meaningful experiences for both J.J. and Kealia, who often speak about the importance of family in their lives.
Business Together
The Watts have expanded their partnership beyond sports and family.
In May 2023, J.J. Watt and Kealia Ohai Watt became minority investors and co-owners of English football club Burnley F.C.
The investment represented an exciting new chapter, allowing them to remain connected to professional sports after their playing careers.
Because Kealia comes from a soccer background and J.J. has long expressed an interest in international football, Burnley proved to be a natural fit for their growing business portfolio.
The couple has since shown strong support for the club and its long-term development.
Life After Competition
Since retiring from professional football, J.J. Watt has remained active through broadcasting, charitable initiatives, business ventures, and public appearances.
Kealia has also shifted her focus toward family life while continuing to stay connected to the soccer community.
Despite stepping away from full-time competition, both remain influential figures in the sports world, frequently participating in events, interviews, and community programs.
Their ability to transition successfully into life beyond professional athletics has earned admiration from fans across multiple sports.
Supporting Each Other
One of the defining characteristics of J.J. and Kealia Watt’s relationship is their unwavering support for each other’s ambitions.
Throughout their careers, they celebrated one another’s accomplishments, whether it was NFL awards, soccer milestones, or business achievements.
That same teamwork now extends to parenting, philanthropy, and sports ownership.
Their shared experiences as elite athletes have given them a unique understanding of the dedication, discipline, and sacrifices required to succeed at the highest level.
Looking Ahead
J.J. Watt and Kealia Ohai Watt continue to build a life that extends far beyond their playing careers. Their marriage combines two accomplished athletes who have excelled on some of the biggest stages in football and soccer while embracing new opportunities together.
With two young sons, successful business investments, and continued involvement in the sports world through Burnley F.C., the couple remains focused on family and long-term goals. Kealia’s achievements as an NCAA champion, NWSL star, Houston Dash captain, and U.S. Women’s National Team player ensure that her legacy stands on its own, independent of her husband’s remarkable NFL career.
As they continue this next chapter together, J.J. and Kealia Watt remain one of the most respected and inspiring couples in professional sports, demonstrating how shared values, teamwork, and mutual support can create lasting success both on and off the field.
