In the world of sports, few stories resonate as deeply as that of Simone Manuel, an Olympic swimmer who made history in 2016 by becoming the first Black American woman to win gold in an Olympic swimming event. Her journey has been marked by incredible achievements, including a bronze medal in the 4 x 100m relay at the Tokyo Olympics. As she prepares for the upcoming Paris Olympics, her husband, Denzel Franklin, stands by her side, cheering her on.
Simone has often spoken about the profound connection she shares with Denzel. “I think I knew he was the one just based off of how he made me feel,” she reflected. Their relationship blossomed from a friendship that began during their freshman year at Stanford University in 2014. They met during a new student orientation activity, where they were partnered up. Despite the task at hand, they found themselves engrossed in conversation, completely unaware that they were supposed to be silent. This initial connection laid the foundation for a deep bond that would grow over the years.
Denzel Franklin hails from Smyrna, Georgia, where he was raised by his parents, Ron Franklin and Rosa Staelin. He was an athlete in high school, excelling in basketball, football, and track and field. His athletic prowess continued at Stanford, where he played as a safety on the football team while majoring in urban studies. The couple began dating in February 2017, a year after Simone’s historic Olympic win.
Their relationship has been characterized by mutual support and understanding. Denzel has been a steadfast presence in Simone’s life, especially during challenging times. After the Tokyo Olympics, where she faced setbacks, Denzel was there to comfort her, demonstrating his unwavering commitment. “He understands that this is my goal and my dream, and he’s very supportive of it,” Simone shared. Their bond has allowed them to navigate the complexities of their respective careers, with Denzel making sacrifices to support Simone’s ambitions.
In July 2022, Denzel proposed to Simone in a picturesque setting at Pigeon Point Beach and Lighthouse in California. The proposal was intimate and heartfelt, with Denzel getting down on one knee as the sun set. “It was very intimate, natural, and private, and I couldn’t ask for a better proposal,” Simone recalled. The couple’s engagement was a joyous occasion, and Simone expressed her excitement about continuing their journey together.
The couple tied the knot twice, first in a private elopement in Arizona in November 2022, where they exchanged vows in front of their parents and Simone’s grandmother. This intimate ceremony was a beautiful start to their married life. “It couldn’t have been more romantic, intimate, and special,” Simone said, reflecting on the Arizona scenery that served as their backdrop.
Their second wedding took place in Houston, Texas, on November 4, 2023, marking their one-year anniversary. This celebration was a grand affair, bringing together over 200 guests to witness their love. “We wanted a wedding that had nods to our personality as people and a couple,” Simone explained. The event featured entertainment, delicious food, and a relaxed atmosphere that allowed family and friends to come together.
The couple’s wedding festivities began with a “Boots and Bling” Texas-themed welcome barbecue, where family members contributed to the cooking, creating a warm and casual environment for guests to mingle. The wedding ceremony itself was officiated by Simone’s childhood pastor, adding a personal touch to the occasion. Simone walked down the aisle in a stunning lace-embellished dress, feeling beautiful and confident in her choice.
For the reception, she changed into a fun and elegant dress that allowed her to dance the night away. The celebration included a cocktail hour with a variety of hors d’oeuvres, followed by a buffet-style dinner featuring a delectable menu. The couple’s vision of “rustic elegance” was brought to life through lush greenery, flowers, and wood accents, creating a beautiful ambiance for their special day.
As they embarked on their married life, Simone expressed her excitement about building a future with Denzel. “Being married is all about keeping the promises that you vowed to never break, spending your lifetime with your best friend, and building a future with someone you love and deeply care about,” she said. Their love story is a testament to the power of connection, support, and shared dreams.
Simone Manuel’s journey as an athlete and her relationship with Denzel Franklin exemplify the beauty of love and partnership. As she continues to pursue her goals in swimming, Denzel remains her biggest supporter, and together, they look forward to a future filled with adventures and cherished moments.
Source: Town & Country, PEOPLE
