Bill Gates has written a new chapter in his love life.
Just weeks after publicly reflecting on the regrets surrounding his divorce from Melinda French Gates, the Microsoft co-founder offered a rare glimpse into his romantic journey—and even gave a heartfelt nod to his new partner, Paula Hurd.
“That’s right, I’m lucky to have a serious girlfriend,” Gates shared during an interview with Today on Feb. 4. “Her name’s Paula.”
The 69-year-old tech mogul, who was first linked to Paula in 2023, spoke fondly of the time they have spent together.
“So we’re having fun,” he continued. “Going to the Olympics and lots of great things.”
Love built on shared passions
Gates, who was previously married to Melinda French Gates for 27 years, shares three children with his ex-wife—
Jennifer Gates Nassar, 28, Rory Gates, 25, and Phoebe Gates, 22.
While his marriage to Melinda came to an end in 2021, he has found a new connection with Paula, the widow of Oracle CEO Mark Hurd.
Tennis has played a pivotal role in their romance.
Two years after finalizing his divorce, Gates and Hurd made headlines when they attended the Australian Open together.
Since then, the couple has been spotted at several major sporting events, including the 2024 Olympic Games.
Grateful for the past
Despite finding happiness in his new relationship, Gates remains grateful for his past with Melinda.
“It’s even hard for me to complain about things,” he admitted.
“I moved past the divorce, Melinda’s doing well. I got a lot of work that I love to do.
Despite the fact that the divorce wasn’t great, having those three kids and the work we were able to do—even if I knew it wouldn’t last forever—I would still do it again.”
However, in a candid interview with The Times on January 25, Gates revealed that the divorce remains his biggest personal regret.
“That was the mistake I most regret,” he confessed.
“You would have to put that at the top of the list. There are others, but none that matters.
The divorce thing was miserable for me and Melinda for at least two years.”
Even as he moves forward, Gates acknowledges the depth of his past relationship.
