Matt Dawson bounces back: New love blossoms with influencer after divorce and Question of Sport axe
Rugby NewsSunday, 08 June 2025 at 08:09
They’ve gone from teenage sweethearts to one of England rugby’s power couples.
Rugby legend Matt Dawson stunned fans in 2020 by revealing his 11-year marriage to Carolin Hauskeller was over.
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Taking to social media, the former A Question of Sport captain shared that their relationship had "taken a different path."
Despite the heartbreak, Dawson made it clear there's no bad blood — the pair remain united in raising their sons, Alex and Sami, and continue to support each other as friends.
Who is Matt Dawson?
Matt Dawson is a former England rugby union scrum-half, best known for winning the 2003 Rugby World Cup.
He earned 77 caps for England and captained the national team. Post-retirement, he became a popular TV personality, coming runner up on Strictly Come Dancing and notably was a team captain on A Question of Sport for over 15 years.
A Premier Signing: Sami Joins Brentford
In a proud moment for the family, Dawson’s son Sami recently signed with Premier League club Brentford.
This achievement is especially significant given Sami’s remarkable recovery from bacterial meningitis as a toddler. Diagnosed at just two years old, the illness left the Dawson family grappling with an uncertain future.
"Tackle Meningitis": Dawson's Campaign for Awareness
Following Sami’s recovery, Dawson has dedicated much of his time to raising awareness about meningitis. Partnering with GSK’s Tackle Meningitis campaign, he’s used his platform to educate others about the dangers of the illness.
Reflecting on that challenging time, Dawson described the harrowing experience of watching Sami in an induced coma, where the outcome was far from clear.
“You have the immediate worry and not knowing what’s around the corner,” Dawson shared. “It was mentally tough, but we’re some of the lucky few.”
Life After the Split: Dawson Moves On
Since his separation from Hauskeller, Dawson has found new love with personal trainer and social media influencer Elizabeth Kelly.
Known for her motivational posts, Kelly’s Instagram bio reads: “There is no passion to be found playing small – in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.”
On International Women's Day, Matt wrote this about Elizabeth: "Around every man there are incredible women continuing to bring love, energy, wisdom, guidance, strength, truth and honesty. I can’t love you anymore than I do but I wish I could double it!! ❤️"
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The England players WAGs cheering on British & Irish Lions this summer
As the British & Irish Lions gear up for an action-packed summer tour, all eyes won’t just be on the pitch — the stands will be just as captivating.
The England players’ WAGs (wives and girlfriends) are preparing to show their unwavering support, bringing glamour, style, and plenty of team spirit along for the ride.
From sun-soaked selfies to heartfelt moments of encouragement, expect these supportive partners to be a vibrant presence throughout the Lions' campaign.
Here's a closer look at the women who’ll be roaring loudest from the sidelines this summer.
Beth Dolling – Singer, Model, and Marcus’s No.1 Fan (Marcus Smith)
Fly-half Marcus Smith is dating Beth Dolling, a 25-year-old singer and model who’s worked with major brands like PrettyLittleThing and built up a sizeable social following.
She’s often snapped in glammed-up couples’ pics with Marcus, and one heartfelt post said it all: “No matter what, watching you do what you love doing makes me so proud.”
They’ve been Instagram official since June 2021, and with Beth’s fashion flair, expect some serious style moments down under.
Mimi Fall – The new Mrs Itoje (Maro Itoje)
The Lions captain has officially hung up his bachelor boots after tying the knot with long-time partner Mimi Fall – just weeks before the tour kicks off.
The towering second-row proposed during a sun-soaked getaway to Nigeria and Ghana in August 2024, popping the question at a dreamy waterside resort in Ada, just outside Accra. “It was a beautiful resort,” Maro told the Daily Mail. “I popped the question there.” Job done.
Mimi confirmed the engagement with a sparkling Instagram reveal, flashing the rock and writing: "Mrs I to be." Cue the collective swoon.
Fast forward to May 25, and the couple sealed the deal with a stylish ceremony in London’s swanky Mayfair. The snaps say it all – pure class, serious suits, and big smiles all round.
Sharing the news online, Maro wrote:
"Scripture says it is not good for man to be alone… I am no longer alone. I HAVE A WIFE. To God be the Glory!!!!"
"Scripture says it is not good for man to be alone… I am no longer alone. I HAVE A WIFE. To God be the Glory!!!!"
Ashleigh Inwood – Five Years Strong with Freeman (Tommy Freeman)
Northampton flier Tommy Freeman has been dating Ashleigh Inwood for over five years. They now share a home near Northampton and a future that looks just as promising as Tommy’s England career.
Freeman recently posted a loved-up tribute: “Five years. Forever grateful for your support.”
But don’t worry — there’s still room in his heart for Fin Smith. Tommy joked to MailOnline: “Our girlfriends aren’t happy because they think we like each other more than them!”
But don’t worry — there’s still room in his heart for Fin Smith. Tommy joked to MailOnline: “Our girlfriends aren’t happy because they think we like each other more than them!”
Nancy Neath – Design Star with an Eye for Decor (Will Stuart)
Prop Will Stuart’s girlfriend Nancy Neath is a creative talent in her own right, running a successful table and floral design business that’s got serious aesthetic game.
The couple moved in together in 2023, though not without hiccups. Will revealed: “My girlfriend chose a new mattress — it’s too soft. I’ve ended up on the floor a few times tucked in a duvet.” Rugby tackles are rough, but love is tougher.
Gracie Hand - The long-term couple (Fin Smith)
Student Gracie tends to keep her private life low-key, but Fin posts adorable selfies of them together, sharing glimpses of their relationship with his followers.
Michelle Daly – From School Romance to Family Life (Elliot Daly)
Elliot Daly married longtime love Michelle in 2021 after years together and one perfectly timed proposal. The pair have now welcomed a daughter, Orla, born in July 2024.
Elliot summed it up sweetly on their anniversary: “One month ago today, I got to marry my soulmate. 10 years of knowing each other, 4 years engaged, and now finally married. My Wife.”
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