In a refreshing new digital series, PEOPLE is set to explore the lives of partners to top athletes through the lens of their unique experiences and challenges. The inaugural guest on the show, aptly named “WAG World,” is the accomplished Camille Kostek, who will be featured on the PEOPLE app starting from May 28, 2026. With a career that spans modelling and cheerleading, Kostek brings a wealth of personal insight to the series, along with her experiences navigating the complexities of a high-profile relationship.
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Kostek, who is best known as a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model and a former cheerleader for the New England Patriots, opened up about her journey in an interview conducted for the show. Her introduction to the world of professional sports was not merely by chance; it coincided beautifully with her romance with NFL star Rob Gronkowski, who is also a Patriots Hall of Famer. However, their relationship has not been without its hurdles, including managing scrutiny and judgement from the public eye.
Stepping onto the set of WAG World, Kostek exhibited her self-assurance as she adjusted the set’s lighting and aesthetics to her liking. “I’m a creative director now too!” she quipped, showcasing her vibrant personality. Over the years, she has faced body image issues, constant pressure from the modelling industry, and the challenges of keeping her relationship private from the public for a significant period. Now, however, she is focused on embracing her own story and sharing her insights on the new platform.
The term “WAG,” which stands for “wives and girlfriends,” has often been viewed negatively, but Kostek’s perspective has evolved significantly. Initially, she felt that the term trivialised her accomplishments, hinting that her success was merely a result of her romantic involvement with an athlete. “I wanted to come on this show because I loved the description: You date an athlete, but you also have your own career. What is that life like?” she reflected, illustrating her desire to present a multifaceted image of women in similar positions.
Kostek’s journey into cheerleading began in 2013, motivated by her life-long passion for dance. “It took me three years to make the squad,” she recalled, underscoring the fierce competition she faced in New England despite having 17 years of experience. She finally achieved her goal at the age of 21, an accomplishment that marked the beginning of her professional career.
Her relationship with Gronkowski began at a charity event in 2013 when he surreptitiously slipped her his number—a move that was against the rules. The couple had to keep their romance under wraps for two years, a challenge that would ultimately strengthen their bond. Now, after almost a decade together, many would wonder about their plans for the future amidst societal pressures regarding engagement and family planning. However, Kostek conveyed a sense of ease with their current trajectory, articulating, “I believe that this is the path I’m meant to be on. I’m excited to watch when all of these other things unfold.”
In addition to her relationship with the NFL star, Kostek is celebrating her ninth appearance in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. Reflecting on how her preparation has evolved since her first feature, she spoke of the pivotal mental shift she experienced. “I remember being 15 and learning to embrace my hips and curves because of the women I saw in the magazine,” she shared. The confidence she gained from these experiences has propelled her forward, leading her to a place where she feels empowered and ready to share her story with others.
The discussion around self-love and acceptance is one that Kostek is keen to promote. She emphasised that it is a continual journey, expressing the importance of kindness towards oneself: “Us ladies need to stop being so hard on ourselves.” This sentiment resonates deeply in today’s world, where unrealistic standards are often upheld by social media and public scrutiny.
WAG World promises to offer an insightful glimpse into the lives of the individuals behind some of the world’s most celebrated athletes, starting with Camille Kostek’s deeply personal narrative. With her experiences, Kostek aims to inspire and empower others to embrace their journeys, thereby redefining what it means to be a partner in the athletic arena. Viewers can look forward to engaging with her story and those of other trailblazing women in future episodes of WAG World, now available exclusively on the PEOPLE app.