In the wake of a devastating injury, rugby starlight Antoine Dupont is making headlines not just for his prowess on the field but for his newfound relationship with former Miss France Iris Mittenaere. Dupont, who suffered a ruptured cruciate ligament during a match against Ireland, has found a source of comfort and joy in Mittenaere, following a period marked by physical and emotional turmoil.
On March 18, 2025, Paris Match broke the news of their romance, a revelation that quickly spread and was subsequently confirmed by Le Parisien just two days later. While Dupont’s injury has him sidelined from rugby for several months, it seems that this unexpected bond might lend him the strength needed for his recovery. Dubbed by fans as "le Martien" for his extraordinary skills on the rugby pitch, Dupont’s off-field life has rarely been in the spotlight – until now.
Photos published in Paris Match capture the duo intimately close, taken on March 16, following the French rugby team’s victory in the Six Nations Tournament. Eyewitness accounts included glimpses of the couple enjoying each other’s company in a Parisian restaurant just steps away from the iconic Champs-Elysées, accompanied by fellow rugby player Anthony Jelonch and influencers Léna Situations and Bigflo et Oli. The media described the scene as one of palpable chemistry, stating, "La star du rugby et l'ancienne Miss France n'ont d'yeux que l'un pour l'autre ces dernières semaines." (The rugby star and the former Miss France have eyes only for each other these last few weeks.)
Fans have been eager for confirmation of their relationship, which was first hinted at by blogger Aqababe. The excitement surrounding their connection is fueled not only by their individual accomplishments but also by their shared experiences in the public eye. Both figures have faced their own challenges: Dupont with his significant injury and Mittenaere with the heartbreak following her previous engagements.
Indeed, Iris Mittenaere, now 32, has weathered her own storms, having recently ended a tumultuous engagement with entrepreneur Diego El Glaoui after four years. This relationship was overshadowed by serious allegations, including domestic violence, resulting in El Glaoui's sentencing to 12 months in prison. With these heavy pasts, it’s easy to see how a shared bond could be healing. As Paris Match poignantly noted, "Rien de plus doux que les sentiments pour apaiser ses blessures..." (Nothing is sweeter than feelings to soothe his wounds.) With Dupont's physical injury keeping him away from the sport, it appears love has roped him back into purpose.
Their adventures together also included a moment shared after a concert by American singer Sabrina Carpenter, further entwining their lives. The couple was seen swathed in laughter, basking in the afterglow of both victories and new beginnings. From laughing together to sharing intimate dinners, their connection appears to have blossomed in swift motions. Yet, amidst this burgeoning romance, neither has publicly acknowledged their relationship in significant terms, leaving speculation to run rampant in pop culture.
For Dupont, the injury – a significant blow that will keep him away from rugby for at least eight months – has been mitigated, perhaps, by the surge of support from Mittenaere. As a national figure, the scrutiny on Dupont is keen, with fans and critics watching his path to recovery closely. Contacted for comment, some sources familiar with the couple suggested this new relationship could provide Dupont with the emotional support necessary to navigate his rehabilitation.
As for Mittenaere, the former beauty queen has transformed her own narrative from a princess embroiled in public scandal to a woman finding peace with a global sports icon. The public support has been warm, paralleling Dupont's admiration, often placing him among France's top three favorite athletes. It reflects a curious intertwining of their lives, each with shared highs and lows, providing them with empathy and understanding through their respective struggles.
The unfolding of Dupont and Mittenaere’s love story continues to captivate not only rugby fans but also enthusiasts of celebrity culture in France. Whether they are out celebrating victories or simply enjoying quiet, personal moments, the couple embodies a fresh chapter of healing and joyful companionship amid turbulent times.
In the days ahead, as Dupont moves through his rehabilitation, there will undoubtedly be an audience captivated by every facet of their relationship. In the face of personal challenges, their connection serves as a fresh reminder that love can flourish against all odds, leading to brighter horizons for both. So, amidst the injury that has sidelined one of rugby's finest players, perhaps it is love that will prove to be the best medicine of all.
