Bill Gates is reflecting on the choices that shaped his life, admitting that the end of his 27-year marriage to Melinda French Gates remains his greatest regret.
In an interview with The Times of London ahead of his memoir Source Code, the Microsoft founder described the divorce as the most painful mistake he has ever made.
“There is something wonderful about spending your entire adult life with one person—the memories, the experiences, and raising children together,” Gates shared.
He recalled how Melinda stood by him as his success skyrocketed.
Witnessing his journey from a promising entrepreneur to one of the world’s richest individuals.
The couple announced their split in 2021, citing an irretrievably broken relationship.
A year later, Bill Gates admitted in an interview with NBC’s TODAY show that the separation brought deep sorrow.
“I have responsibility for causing a lot of pain to my family. It was a tough year,” he said.
“But I feel good that all of us are moving forward now.”
Despite their divorce, Bill and Melinda initially continued working together at The Gates Foundation, one of the world’s largest philanthropic organizations.
At the time of their separation, they agreed to co-manage the foundation for two years before reassessing their roles.
However, last year, Melinda made the decision to step down—a move that Gates admitted “disappointed” him.
“Melinda and I still see each other-we have three kids and two grandchildren, so there are family events,” he explained.
“The kids are doing well. They have good values.”
When asked if he had any regrets besides his divorce, Gates simply responded, “There are others, but none that matter.”
