Nikki Sapp, the former wife of Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra, has had enough of the online trolls. On Tuesday, she took to Instagram to address the relentless criticism she’s faced since her divorce from Spoelstra was finalized in November 2023. Speaking candidly from her bathroom, Sapp began by expressing gratitude to the supportive messages she’s received, referring to them as “angels in her DMs” who have encouraged her to stay strong.
The backlash against Sapp intensified earlier this year when, just weeks after their divorce, Spoelstra signed a lucrative contract extension with the Miami Heat. Critics were quick to accuse Sapp of “fumbling the bag,” suggesting she missed out on a significant financial opportunity. Sapp, however, did not hold back in her response to these accusations.
“According to crass, ignorant, uninformed society at large, women can’t ‘win,’” Sapp wrote on social media. “Women can’t be genuinely in love with someone successful. No, they’re pretending and they’re in it for the money. And if a woman chooses to not be with a successful partner, apparently she’s an idiot.”
Despite the ongoing negativity, Sapp remains unfazed. In her recent Instagram video, she made it clear that the online hate no longer affects her. “It’s hard to hurt me at this point,” the Kendall native said, adding that she doesn’t blame those who question her integrity or intellect because they don’t know her personal story.
Sapp also addressed the physical insults she’s received, particularly those targeting her appearance. She acknowledged the comments about her “snout” and “brick” like chin, stating that she’s well aware of her features. “I get it,” said the podcaster, who revealed she had her ears surgically pinned back at age 12 after being bullied by “mean girls.”
When it comes to criticisms about her skin, Sapp was equally candid. She admitted to using Botox and had no qualms about it. “Yes, I’ve done the Botox,” said the Killian Senior High School alum. “You don’t want to see me without [it].”
Sapp also had a witty retort for those who mock her age, particularly one individual who suggested she looks so old she is “due to be traded in.” “You are late to the party and you must live under a rock,” Sapp joked. “Because, sir, the trade already happened.”
Sapp’s response to her detractors is a testament to her resilience and self-assurance. Despite the harsh criticism and personal attacks, she continues to stand strong and unbothered. Her message is clear: she’s not going to let the negativity bring her down.
