Pregnant Jena Sims Opens Up About Overcoming Body-Shaming and Defying Stereotypes

Jena Sims, 34, who is expecting her first child with professional golfer Brooks Koepka, has recently faced online criticism regarding her body and marriage. Sims revealed that she didn't start showing until about six months into her pregnancy due to her naturally thin figure. While promoting her partnership with the nonprofit Baby Quest, Sims expressed her frustration with having to constantly prove her pregnancy to others, describing it as a form of body-shaming.

She stated, "I am not responsible for meeting your expectations of how my pregnancy should appear or how I should carry myself. ... Due to my husband's high-profile status, we are constantly being scrutinized." Sims and Koepka have been a couple since 2017, meeting at the Masters Tournament two years prior. They got married in June 2022 and revealed in May that they are anticipating their first child. Sims, who is now in her seventh month of pregnancy, also expressed her cautiousness about what she shares online regarding her pregnancy.

“I am well aware that everyone tends to offer unsolicited advice, with everyone having an opinion on what I should and shouldn't do," she shared on Thursday. "Moreover, there are others who criticize me for not being able to accompany Brooks when traveling, asserting that it makes me a terrible wife. However, my priority is taking care of myself... Ultimately, I have to prioritize my well-being, and as long as the doctors aren't alarmed, I am not concerned.”

Jena Sims, who proudly showcased her baby bump at the recent Sports Illustrated Swimsuit runway show, remains unfazed by the negative comments labeling her a "gold digger" for her marriage to a professional athlete.

Brooks Koepka and Jena Sims. JLN Photography/Shutterstock

"People immediately label me as a gold digger upon seeing me, but that perception couldn't be more incorrect," she declared after their appearance on season 1 of Netflix's Full Swing. "I have never stopped working, and since getting married, I have even increased my efforts. I have numerous projects in progress."

She went on to express her frustration, stating, "It deeply bothers me that just because of my personality, my Instagram presence, and the extravagant experiences we indulge in, people are quick to pass judgement based solely on appearances, which is nowhere near the reality."

Sims and Koepka's marriage has flourished during her pregnancy, with their teamwork strengthening their bond. The model expresses her delight at her husband's excitement about becoming a father, and how he now treats her with even more love. Sims also prioritizes her pregnancy and marriage's wellbeing and has joined forces with Baby Quest, an organization that supports expectant parents in covering the expenses of assisted reproductive technologies.

Baby Quest provides funding and grants for women seeking to conceive a baby. This includes assistance with medical expenses for those pursuing IVF, as well as support for single individuals and same-sex couples who are facing difficulties in conceiving. The foundation holds a special place in Sims' heart, and she is passionate about raising funds to help women fulfill their dreams of parenthood. Additionally, Sims joined forces with jewelry designer Mignon Gavigan to create a unique collection of wing-shaped earrings that also contribute to this charitable cause.

"I expressed my interest in doing something with a charitable component, especially since they're wings, so I suggested supporting women going through pregnancy loss or infertility," she shared with Us. "I contacted my friend Katrina Scott, who has been open about her journey with IVF, for recommendations on charities that would be a good fit for this endeavor. She introduced me to Baby Quest, and recently we organized a successful brunch luncheon event in LA to raise funds for the charity."

Reported by Christina Garibaldi.