Millie Bright Partner 2025: Relationship & Personal Life

Millie Bright has become one of England’s most celebrated footballers, but her personal life has attracted significant attention in 2025. The Chelsea captain’s relationship status has undergone dramatic changes, sparking widespread interest across UK media outlets and amongst football fans nationwide.​

The 32-year-old defender made headlines in June 2025 when reports emerged that she had ended her engagement to Levi Crew, a nutritionist and personal trainer from America. Shortly afterwards, sources revealed she had developed a connection with Dave Zetolofsky, a former professional kickboxer and personal trainer whom she met whilst training at the 21st Century Combat gym in Redhill, Surrey.​

Chelsea Captain’s Challenging Year

Bright’s personal upheaval coincided with one of the most difficult professional decisions of her career. The England defender withdrew from the Euro 2025 squad just days before the tournament announcement, citing her inability to give “100 per cent mentally or physically”. This decision shocked fans and fellow players alike, as Bright had been a cornerstone of England’s defensive line since her debut in 2016.​

The Chelsea captain released an emotional statement on social media explaining her choice. She acknowledged that whilst her pride urged her to compete, the team and supporters deserved more than she could currently offer. Bright emphasised that stepping back was essential for her health, her future in football, and most importantly, the team itself.​

Sources close to the player confirmed that the 2024-2025 season had been exceptionally demanding both personally and professionally. Chelsea achieved a domestic treble, winning the Women’s Super League, FA Cup, and League Cup. Bright made 36 appearances across all competitions, helping cement Chelsea’s dominance in English women’s football.​

From Levi Crew to Dave Zetolofsky

The relationship between Bright and Levi Crew reportedly began around 2020 and progressed to an engagement. Crew, who runs his own performance coaching company, was based in the UK and shared a home with Bright in Surrey. The couple appeared devoted, with Bright previously describing Crew as her “king” and even having his eye tattooed on her arm.​

However, the relationship ended abruptly in early 2025. Reports suggest Bright had deleted all traces of Crew from her social media platforms by June. The split came as the footballer began training at a new gym facility in Redhill during February 2025, where she met Zetolofsky.​

Dave Zetolofsky brings a different background to Bright’s life. A former professional kickboxer and martial arts enthusiast, he works as a personal trainer at the 21st Century Combat gym. The relationship reportedly developed through their training sessions, with sources indicating that Zetolofsky has since moved into Bright’s residence.​

The timing of these personal changes sparked considerable media speculation about whether they influenced Bright’s decision to withdraw from Euro 2025. However, friends close to the footballer firmly stated that the relationship developments and engagement split had nothing to do with her tournament withdrawal. Instead, they pointed to her need for surgery on a long-term knee injury and the mental exhaustion from a gruelling season.​

Complex Relationship History

Bright’s romantic journey has been marked by several high-profile relationships that have ended under challenging circumstances. Prior to her engagement with Crew, she was in a relationship with Jordan Bird, a semi-professional footballer who worked at Chelsea Women’s stadium doing groundwork.​

Jordan Bird revealed to media outlets that their relationship ended dramatically on the very day they purchased a £465,000 property together in Redhill, Surrey. After nearly two years together, Bright suddenly expressed doubts about their relationship and told Bird he was not welcome to move into the house with her.​

Bird described a pattern of behaviour where Bright would profess her love one day, then end the relationship the next. Following brief separations, she would claim to have made a mistake and want to restart the relationship. This cycle continued until the final break-up coincided with their house purchase, at which point Levi Crew reportedly moved into the property.​

In interviews, Bird expressed sympathy for Crew following news of their split, stating he understood exactly what Crew was experiencing having been through a similar situation himself. The revelations painted a picture of a complicated personal life running parallel to Bright’s stellar professional achievements.​

Mental Health and Player Welfare

Bright’s decision to prioritise her wellbeing over international competition has highlighted broader concerns about player welfare in women’s football. The defender spoke candidly about her struggles during her Daly Brightness podcast with co-host and teammate Rachel Daly.​

When asked about her wellbeing, Bright admitted she was “probably not” in a good place at that moment. She explained that she had reached her limits both mentally and physically, which prompted her withdrawal from the England camp. The centre-back emphasised the importance of taking time for herself and prioritising mental health.​

Her honesty resonated across the women’s football community. Research indicates that professional female footballers face unique pressures that can lead to psychological distress. One study found that professional female footballers are nearly twice as likely to experience psychological distress after undergoing surgery.​

The Football Association has acknowledged these challenges. Following the tragic suicide of Sheffield United midfielder Maddy Cusack in 2023, the FA commissioned a report into mental health support across the Women’s Super League. The organisation announced plans to make wellbeing and psychology roles mandatory in WSL licensing.​

Despite these positive steps, access to mental health care and sports psychology varies dramatically between clubs. Many players speak publicly about pressures related to anxiety, burnout, and emotional distress, yet professional psychological care remains inconsistent across the league.​

Bright underwent minor knee surgery shortly after withdrawing from the Euro 2025 squad. She explained that her decision considered not just representing England, but her ability to perform everyday activities in the future. The footballer mentioned concerns about simple tasks like walking down stairs after 90 minutes on the pitch, bending down to pick up toys when she has children, and putting on socks without discomfort.​

Stellar Football Career

Whilst her personal life has attracted attention, Bright’s professional achievements remain remarkable. Born in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, on 21 August 1993, she began playing football at age nine after watching a friend play for Killamarsh Dynamos. A plaque honouring Bright was installed at the club in 2022 as part of the “Where Greatness Is Made” campaign.​

Bright joined Chelsea in December 2014 and quickly established herself as a defensive pillar. She has won 19 honours with the Blues, including eight league titles and domestic trebles in both the 2020-2021 and 2024-2025 seasons. Her teammates named her Chelsea Players’ Player of the Year in 2015.​

The defender made her England debut in Belgium in September 2016, initially playing in midfield before finding her natural position in the backline. She was named Vauxhall England Young Player of the Year in 2016 and has earned 88 caps for the national team, scoring six goals.​

Bright played every match during Euro 2017, just ten months after her debut. She was equally crucial to England’s Euro 2022 triumph on home soil, forming a formidable partnership with Leah Williamson at centre-back. The defender also captained England in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup final, where the Lionesses fell to Spain.​

In 2020, Bright received recognition in the FIFA FIFPro Women’s World11 and was named to the PFA Team of the Year for both the 2017-2018 and 2019-2020 seasons. She was appointed Chelsea captain and received an OBE for her services to football.​

The 2024-2025 season proved physically demanding for Bright. She made 36 appearances across all competitions as Chelsea secured another domestic treble. The relentless schedule contributed to her decision to step back from international duty and focus on recovery.​

Return to Form

Following her withdrawal from Euro 2025 and subsequent knee surgery, Bright has gradually returned to action with Chelsea. Speaking at a press conference in October 2025, she confirmed she remains “always available” for England selection but is currently focused on club duties.​

The centre-back expressed excitement about Chelsea’s UEFA Women’s Champions League campaign, describing the competition as something every player dreams of since childhood. She acknowledged that the women’s game is becoming increasingly competitive each season, making it harder to win tournaments.​

Bright emphasised that Chelsea remain on the same page collectively, working hard every day to improve. She noted that whilst the team has been critical of some performances early in the season, peak performance typically comes later. Chelsea remained unbeaten in the Women’s Super League through their first five matches of the 2025-2026 season, winning four and drawing one.​

The defender has logged 270 minutes across three WSL appearances this season, starting all matches and avoiding substitution. Her leadership remains vital to Chelsea’s ambitions across domestic and European competitions.​

In August 2025, Bright reflected on her Euro 2025 withdrawal during an interview with BBC Radio 5 Live’s Women’s Football Weekly. She described missing the tournament as “the best decision I ever made” and confirmed she feels back to herself. For the first time in her career, Bright made a decision solely for herself rather than considering how the public would perceive her choice.​

Media Scrutiny and Privacy

The intense media attention surrounding Bright’s personal life has raised questions about privacy for female footballers. Tabloid coverage of her relationship changes has been extensive, with detailed reports about her living arrangements and romantic connections.​

Some critics argue that the focus on Bright’s personal relationships detracts from her considerable professional achievements and contributions to women’s football. Others contend that public figures inevitably face scrutiny regarding their private lives, particularly when changes occur during major sporting events.​

The footballer has not publicly commented on the specific details of her relationship with Zetolofsky or the circumstances surrounding her split from Crew. She has instead maintained focus on her recovery, mental health, and return to peak performance with Chelsea.​

Bright’s situation reflects broader challenges facing women’s football as the sport gains unprecedented attention and commercial success. Players increasingly navigate the demands of elite competition alongside intense public interest in their personal lives.​

Growing Pressures in Women’s Football

The expansion of women’s football has brought remarkable opportunities but also significant challenges for player welfare. UEFA faced criticism for expanding the Women’s Champions League format, which added fixtures to already demanding schedules. Teams now play six different opponents during the league phase rather than facing three opponents twice.​

Whilst the additional matches boost visibility and revenue, they increase the risk of fatigue, injury, and burnout for players already stretched to their limits. Financial security remains another major challenge, with some WSL players reportedly earning as little as £20,000 annually, forcing many to juggle full-time jobs or academic studies alongside football.​

FIFA has called for dialogue on player welfare, proposing mandatory minimum rest periods of 72 hours between matches and mandatory holiday periods. The global governing body recognises the importance of protecting both physical and mental wellbeing for players worldwide.​

Research indicates that 38 per cent of professional footballers experience depression symptoms, highlighting the prevalence of mental health issues within the sport. FIFPRO, the global players’ union, has launched initiatives to raise awareness and support players struggling with psychological challenges.​

Looking Ahead

As Bright enters her 33rd year, questions remain about her international future with England. The defender has stated she is available for selection but has not committed to a specific timeline for her return to the national team. Manager Sarina Wiegman will announce squads for upcoming friendlies against Brazil and Australia, though Bright’s focus remains on club competition.​

Chelsea’s ambitions for the 2025-2026 season align with Bright’s competitive drive. The Blues pursue success across the WSL, FA Cup, League Cup, and Champions League. Under new manager Sonia Bompastor, Chelsea aim to maintain their domestic dominance whilst challenging for European glory.​

Bright’s leadership proves essential to these aspirations. Her experience, defensive prowess, and ability to inspire teammates make her invaluable to Chelsea’s success. The captain’s decision to prioritise her wellbeing has allowed her to return stronger and more focused than during the challenging period surrounding Euro 2025.​

The defender’s journey illustrates the complex realities facing elite female footballers in 2025. Balancing professional excellence with personal wellbeing, navigating media scrutiny, and managing intense physical demands require resilience and strong support systems.​

Support Systems and Recovery

Bright’s recovery process has included not only physical rehabilitation from knee surgery but also mental and emotional healing. She spoke about making her first truly selfish decision, prioritising her own needs over external expectations. This shift in perspective marks a significant development in her approach to both football and life beyond the pitch.​

The defender’s openness about her struggles has contributed to broader conversations about mental health in women’s football. By acknowledging that she could not give 100 per cent, Bright demonstrated the courage required to step back from opportunities that might have compromised her long-term wellbeing.​

Her decision also highlighted the importance of player autonomy in career management. Rather than allowing pride or ego to dictate her choices, Bright carefully considered the consequences for her future in football and her quality of life after retirement.​

The support from Chelsea, teammates, and coaching staff has been crucial to her recovery. The club provided time and resources for her rehabilitation, allowing her to return when genuinely ready rather than rushing back prematurely. This approach reflects growing awareness within top clubs about the importance of sustainable career management for players.​

Partnership on the Pitch

Whilst Bright’s romantic partnerships have attracted media attention, her defensive partnerships on the pitch remain equally significant to her success. At Chelsea, she has formed effective partnerships with various centre-back colleagues, providing stability and leadership to the Blues’ defensive line.​

For England, her partnership with Leah Williamson proved particularly successful during Euro 2022. The pair complemented each other’s strengths, with Bright’s physicality and aerial ability combining with Williamson’s distribution and reading of the game. Together, they helped England keep crucial clean sheets en route to tournament victory.​

These professional relationships demonstrate Bright’s ability to form effective partnerships built on trust, communication, and shared objectives. The same qualities that make her an excellent defensive partner translate to her role as captain, where building relationships across the squad proves essential to team cohesion.​

Public Reaction and Support

Fan reaction to Bright’s personal situation and Euro 2025 withdrawal has been largely supportive. Many supporters expressed understanding of her decision to prioritise mental and physical health over tournament participation. Comments across social media platforms praised her honesty and encouraged other players to make similar choices when necessary.​

Some England fans initially expressed disappointment at losing such an experienced defender for a major tournament. However, understanding grew as Bright explained her reasoning and the extent of her exhaustion. The Lionesses successfully defended their European title without her, demonstrating the squad’s depth and resilience.​

Fellow players and coaches publicly supported Bright’s decision. The willingness of high-profile athletes to discuss mental health challenges openly has helped reduce stigma and encouraged others to seek support when struggling.​

England manager Sarina Wiegman respected Bright’s choice and emphasised that the door remains open for her return to the national team when she feels ready. This approach recognises the long-term value of supporting players through difficult periods rather than pressuring them to compete when not at their best.​

Legacy and Impact

Beyond her personal relationships and recent challenges, Bright’s legacy in women’s football remains secure. She has won 19 honours with Chelsea and 88 caps for England, contributing to some of the most significant achievements in the history of English women’s football.​

Her role in England’s Euro 2022 triumph holds particular significance. As a key member of the squad that ended decades of hurt for English football fans, Bright helped inspire a new generation of young girls to pursue the sport. The tournament’s success dramatically increased visibility and investment in women’s football across the UK.​

Bright’s willingness to speak openly about mental health and player welfare may prove equally important to her legacy. By demonstrating that even elite athletes struggle with burnout and emotional exhaustion, she has helped normalise conversations about wellbeing in sport.​

The defender’s career trajectory from Killamarsh Dynamos to Chelsea captain and England international exemplifies the growth of women’s football over the past decade. When she began her professional career, the women’s game operated with far fewer resources and significantly less media attention.​

Today’s landscape offers unprecedented opportunities but also subjects players to scrutiny once reserved for their male counterparts. Bright’s experiences navigating this evolving environment provide valuable lessons for younger players entering the professional ranks.​

Balancing Act

The challenge of balancing personal life with professional demands affects all elite athletes, but women’s football presents unique circumstances. Players often earn significantly less than male footballers whilst facing similar physical and mental demands. This reality requires careful management of energy, time, and resources.​

Bright’s situation demonstrates how personal relationships can both support and complicate professional careers. The end of her engagement and subsequent relationship changes occurred during a period of intense professional pressure, potentially compounding the stress she experienced.​

The footballer’s decision to step back from international duty reflected recognition that she could not effectively manage all these pressures simultaneously. By prioritising recovery and focusing on club football, she created space for personal healing and physical rehabilitation.​

This approach contrasts with traditional sporting culture that often celebrates playing through pain and sacrificing personal wellbeing for team success. Bright’s choice represents a more sustainable model that recognises athletes as whole people whose long-term health matters beyond immediate sporting achievements.​

Professional Standards

Despite personal challenges, Bright has maintained exceptionally high professional standards throughout her career. Her commitment to training, tactical preparation, and leadership responsibilities has never wavered. Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor continues to rely on her captain’s experience and defensive expertise.​

The defender’s professionalism extends to her media responsibilities and engagement with fans. She co-hosts “The Rest Is Football: Daly Brightness” podcast with teammate Rachel Daly, providing insights into the women’s game and discussing important topics affecting players.​

Through this platform, Bright has been able to share her experiences in her own words rather than relying solely on media interpretation. The podcast allows for nuanced discussions about challenges facing women’s footballers, including the mental health issues she has confronted.​

Her willingness to use her platform for important conversations demonstrates leadership that extends beyond the pitch. By speaking honestly about difficult topics, Bright helps create an environment where other players feel comfortable discussing their own struggles.​

Future Considerations

As Bright continues her career with Chelsea and potentially returns to England duty, several factors will shape her future trajectory. Her physical health, particularly the condition of her knee following surgery, will determine how many more seasons she can compete at the highest level.​

Mental and emotional wellbeing will prove equally important. The defender has demonstrated greater awareness of her limits and willingness to protect her health, suggesting a more sustainable approach moving forward.​

Her personal life, whilst attracting media attention, remains ultimately private. The relationship with Dave Zetolofsky may provide stability and support, though time will tell how this partnership develops away from the spotlight.​

Professionally, Bright faces competition for her position at both club and international level. Younger defenders are emerging through England’s development system, and Chelsea maintains a talented squad across all positions. However, her experience, leadership qualities, and defensive abilities ensure she remains valuable to both teams.​

Beyond her playing career, Bright has expressed interest in sports therapy and sports massage courses, suggesting potential future directions. Her accumulated knowledge and experience would make her an valuable mentor, coach, or advocate for player welfare in women’s football.​

Broader Context

Bright’s story unfolds against the backdrop of unprecedented growth in women’s football. The Women’s Super League attracts increasing viewership, sponsorship, and media coverage. Major tournaments draw sell-out crowds and television audiences that would have seemed impossible a decade ago.​

This growth brings both opportunities and challenges. Increased revenue allows clubs to invest in facilities, coaching, and support services. However, it also intensifies pressure on players and subjects them to greater scrutiny from media and fans.​

The conversation about player welfare that Bright’s situation has amplified reflects necessary growing pains as women’s football matures into a truly professional sport. Establishing appropriate support systems, rest periods, and mental health resources requires ongoing attention from governing bodies, clubs, and players’ unions.​

Research into the specific needs of female athletes continues to evolve. Understanding how women’s bodies respond to training loads, injury rehabilitation, and psychological pressure requires dedicated study and application of findings. The women’s game cannot simply adopt approaches developed for male football without considering physiological and contextual differences.​

Industry Response

The football industry has begun responding to concerns raised by players like Bright. The FA’s commitment to making wellbeing and psychology roles mandatory in WSL licensing represents progress. However, implementation and quality of these services will determine their actual impact on player welfare.​

UEFA and FIFA have acknowledged the need for better protections around fixture scheduling and rest periods. Translating these acknowledgements into concrete policy changes remains an ongoing challenge as commercial pressures encourage expansion of competitions.​

Individual clubs vary significantly in their approach to player welfare. Well-resourced teams like Chelsea can provide comprehensive support services, whilst smaller clubs struggle to match these standards. Creating minimum requirements across leagues would help ensure all players receive adequate care regardless of their club’s financial position.​

Players’ unions have advocated strongly for improved conditions and support systems. FIFPRO’s research on mental health prevalence among footballers provides valuable evidence for policy discussions. Continued collaboration between players, unions, and governing bodies will prove essential to meaningful progress.​

Personal Growth

Bright’s journey through the challenges of 2025 appears to have fostered significant personal growth. Her statements about making decisions for herself rather than worrying about public perception suggest increased self-awareness and confidence in her own judgement.​

The defender’s reflection that stepping back from Euro 2025 was “the best decision I ever made” indicates she has found peace with a choice that must have been incredibly difficult. This acceptance suggests emotional maturity and a healthy perspective on the relative importance of individual tournaments versus long-term wellbeing.​

Her openness about reaching her mental and physical limits demonstrates vulnerability that many public figures struggle to show. By admitting she could not give 100 per cent, Bright modelled honesty that may help other players feel comfortable acknowledging their own limitations.​

The recovery process has allowed Bright to reconnect with what she loves about football whilst establishing better boundaries around her time and energy. This balance will serve her well as she continues her career and eventually transitions to life after playing.​

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Millie Bright’s current partner in 2025?

Millie Bright is currently in a relationship with Dave Zetolofsky, a former professional kickboxer and personal trainer whom she met at the 21st Century Combat gym in Redhill, Surrey, in February 2025. The relationship developed after Bright ended her engagement to Levi Crew, a nutritionist and performance coach with whom she had been in a relationship since approximately 2020.​

Why did Millie Bright withdraw from Euro 2025?

Bright withdrew from the Euro 2025 squad because she felt unable to give 100 per cent mentally or physically. She explained that she had reached her limits after a demanding 2024-2025 season with Chelsea, during which the team won a domestic treble. The defender also required knee surgery and decided to prioritise her long-term health and wellbeing over participating in the tournament.​

What is Millie Bright’s relationship history?

Before her current relationship with Dave Zetolofsky, Bright was engaged to Levi Crew from approximately 2020 until early 2025. Prior to that engagement, she was in a relationship with Jordan Bird, a semi-professional footballer, from 2021 to 2022. Bird revealed that their relationship ended on the day they purchased a house together in Redhill, Surrey, after which Levi Crew moved into the property.​

How has Millie Bright addressed mental health in football?

Bright has spoken openly about mental health challenges, particularly during her Daly Brightness podcast with co-host Rachel Daly. She explained that she was at her limits mentally and physically, which led to her withdrawal from the England squad. The defender emphasised the importance of prioritising mental wellbeing and taking time for self-care, even when such decisions disappoint others. Her honesty has contributed to broader conversations about player welfare in women’s football.​

Will Millie Bright return to play for England?

Bright has confirmed she remains “always available” for England selection, though she is currently focused on club duties with Chelsea. Speaking in October 2025, the defender indicated that she would have to see what comes regarding international competition. England manager Sarina Wiegman has kept the door open for Bright’s return to the national team when she feels ready. The defender appears to be prioritising her physical recovery and mental wellbeing whilst maintaining her openness to representing her country in the future.​

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