Over the years, Tommy Fleetwood’s talent on the golf course has never been in question. However, his personal life, particularly his relationship with Clare Craig, has garnered significant public interest. The couple’s 23-year age gap initially grabbed headlines, but recently it’s a different misconception that Clare has been striving to clarify: the oversimplified label of “WAG” (Wives and Girlfriends) that often accompanies her name.
### A Professional Connection
Tommy and Clare’s story began nearly a decade ago before they even started dating. Clare, a prominent sports agent, was working at Hambric Sports Management when Tommy joined the firm in 2015. He was still making a name for himself on the European DP Tour, and Clare, already familiar with his work, eventually signed him to her agency. Their professional connection quickly evolved into a personal relationship, albeit with some initial resistance. Clare initially turned down Tommy’s advances due to the age gap, but as they spent more time together, their bond deepened, leading to marriage in 2017.
### Beyond the Label
Despite her significant contributions both personally and professionally to Tommy’s life, Clare has often been reduced to the label of a “WAG.” This term originated in the UK media to describe the wives or girlfriends of famous athletes, particularly in football, and has since been used indiscriminately across various sports. However, this label fails to encapsulate Clare’s multifaceted role. Tommy himself has weighed in on this misconception, highlighting in a 2023 interview that Clare is much more than a simple companion: “Ooh, I don’t think she’d like to be called a WAG much. Clare does much more than me; she’s a very, very busy woman.”
### A Career in Sports Management
Clare’s achievements in sports management predate her relationship with Tommy. As the Vice President for Europe at Hambric Sports Management, she has a wealth of experience managing professional golfers. Long before Tommy became a household name, Clare was already crafting her career, showcasing her expertise and commitment to the sports industry.
As Tommy’s manager, Clare has taken an active role in shaping his career trajectory, applying her extensive knowledge and experience to elevate his game. She has been a stabilizing force in his life, especially during challenging times. For instance, in 2022, while battling personal struggles, including his mother’s treatment for cancer, Tommy performed admirably in major tournaments. His success during tough times is something he attributes directly to the support and strategy Clare provides.
### The Dynamics of Their Relationship
Clare and Tommy have always prioritized their relationship’s integrity. Initially, they planned to keep their professional lives separate, with Tommy considering finding another agent. Yet, the deep trust and mutual respect they had for one another led them to work together. Tommy has openly stated, “We planned to keep our life and our work separate, for me to find another agent. But it became more apparent I wasn’t going to find anybody I’d trust as much.”
This speaks volumes about the dynamic of their relationship. Clare is not just a spouse; she plays an integral role as a partner, decision-maker, and key influencer in Tommy’s career path.
### Clare’s Advocacy Against Misconceptions
Clare’s reluctance to be labeled strictly as a WAG is indicative of a broader issue where women in the sports sphere are often viewed through a limited lens. While the WAG narrative has its roots in a specific context, it fails to consider the individual contributions and accomplishments of women like Clare, who are actively shaping the careers of their partners. By pushing back against this stereotype, Clare aims to inspire a shift in perception that acknowledges the diverse roles women play in not just sports but various industries.
### The Importance of Support
Tommy Fleetwood’s statements about Clare emphasize that a strong home life can significantly influence one’s professional accomplishments. “There’s always an element of if your home life is great, that translates onto whatever you’re doing in life,” he explained in the mentioned interview. By advocating for a more accurate representation of Clare, Tommy is not only supporting his wife but also challenging societal norms that tend to categorize women based on their relationships with men.
### Conclusion
Tommy and Clare Fleetwood exemplify a modern partnership built on mutual respect, understanding, and professional synergy. The 23-year age gap has been a talking point, but the true story lies in their shared commitment to each other’s goals and dreams. Clare’s refusal to accept the label of a “WAG” underscores the importance of individual identity in relationships, especially in a world where women are often judged based on their associations rather than their accomplishments.
As they navigate the complexities of life and careers intertwined, both Clare and Tommy serve as reminders that love and partnership can flourish even amidst public scrutiny. By advocating for a broader understanding of women’s roles in sports and beyond, Clare is not only reshaping her narrative but also inspiring future generations to redefine how we perceive women in leadership and partnership roles.
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