Danica Patrick has never shied away from speaking her mind, including reflecting on her past relationships. The former NASCAR and IndyCar driver recently opened up about her high-profile breakup with NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers, admitting that the split “broke” her but also led to significant personal growth.

Patrick and Rodgers, who went public with their relationship in 2018, appeared to be heading toward a long-term future together. They purchased a home in California and spent considerable time together. However, their relationship ended unexpectedly in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, shocking fans who had anticipated wedding bells.

Patrick Reflects On The Pain And Growth

Danica Patrick in sunglassesMIAMI, FLORIDA – MAY 08: Danica Patrick walks in the Paddock prior to the F1 Grand Prix of Miami at the Miami International Autodrome on May 08, 2022 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)
During an episode of Running Wild With Bear Grylls, Patrick shared how deeply the breakup affected her.

“There’s nothing like heartbreak to really throw you in the deep end,” she said. “As broken open as I was on the sad end, I have felt so much joy in so many more instances and so many more unlikely places than I ever have. It’s like my heart got broken open to both ends of the spectrum.”

Through it all, Patrick leaned on her family for support. “My dad is always super proud of me. My mom and sister too. I’m really fortunate that I have a family that’s super supportive. You gotta have someone you can fall apart with, you know?” she added.

Since the breakup, Patrick has taken an unexpected turn into political commentary. She admitted that she never paid attention to politics until 2023, when she attended her first event. “I didn’t know who Charlie Kirk was. I never paid attention to politics,” she told Riley Gaines. “After going to that event, I posted some photos… I met Tucker Carlson, and I guess I’m in politics now.”

Meanwhile, Rodgers’ career has been turbulent since the split. After struggling with the New York Jets, he was released and remains undecided about his future in the NFL. While the two have taken separate paths, Patrick’s candid reflections show she has emerged stronger- and entirely in control of her next chapter.