**Love Island USA Runners-Up Call Time on Relationship After One Year**
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The romantic journey of Nic Vansteenberghe and Olandria Carthen, who gained fame as runners-up on Season 7 of Love Island USA, has come to an end. A reliable source confirmed to PEOPLE that the couple has decided to part ways after over a year of dating. This news, first reported on July 22, has garnered significant media attention and fan speculation.
On July 26, shortly after the breakup announcement, Vansteenberghe took to TikTok to address the situation. In a candid post, he expressed that while they would no longer be a couple, their affection for one another remains intact. “We will continue to love each other ALWAYS,” he wrote, urging fans to respect their privacy during this sensitive time.
The couple’s split was reportedly attributed to the demands of their respective lives, with distance and busy schedules posing significant challenges to their relationship. According to the insider, despite their romantic separation, Vansteenberghe and Carthen maintain a strong friendship, founded on mutual respect and support.
Interestingly, the pair were seen together at the wedding of Jordyn Woods and NBA player Karl-Anthony Towns on August 15. The event took place in Malibu, California, and saw the former Love Island contestants seated next to each other during the ceremony overlooking the stunning Pacific Ocean. Their appearance together sparked speculation about a possible reconciliation.
Following the wedding, Vansteenberghe spoke to reporters in Las Vegas. Asked about his relationship status with Carthen, he opted for a vague response, stating he wished to keep it private for the time being. “I would love to tell you guys, but I’m going to keep that private for now,” he noted. Nonetheless, he did share that they had a wonderful time at the wedding, calling it “amazing.”
In an effort to provide comfort to others experiencing breakups, Vansteenberghe offered advice during the interview. He remarked, “Things will always get better. It’s rock bottom, but it’s about the climb.” He also indicated a willingness to remain friends with an ex, asserting that an amicable separation can foster a healthy friendship moving forward.
Despite their friendly exchange at the wedding and Vansteenberghe’s assurance that they ended things on a positive note, questions linger regarding the future of their relationship. When probed about enjoying single life, he responded honestly, “It’s a bit soon,” reflecting a still-fresh transition into this new phase of his life.
Carthen has previously shared insights into the pressures of being in a public relationship. In a conversation with Cosmopolitan in June, she voiced her discomfort regarding the incessant scrutiny of her relationship with Vansteenberghe. “I’m never that invested in someone’s relationship, and I’m not living for the internet,” she explained. Carthen emphasised her desire for privacy, stating that she prefers not to document every moment of her personal life for public consumption.
The couple’s inclination to keep their relationship under wraps has resonated with many fans, who appreciate their efforts to maintain authenticity away from the constant spotlight of social media. “We don’t monetize our relationship or put it on display,” Carthen remarked, highlighting the importance of genuine human connection over a curated online presence.
As they navigate this transition out of their romantic relationship, both Vansteenberghe and Carthen seem committed to upholding the respect and affection they have for one another. For now, the future remains uncertain, but their shared history from Love Island USA will undoubtedly continue to be a topic of interest among fans and followers.