The Love Story of NFL Star Austin Ekeler and TikTok Sensation Melanie Wilking
Discover how Washington Commanders' player Austin Ekeler and social media influencer Melanie Wilking connected on Instagram and embarked on a journey that led to their engagement.
NFL Player Austin Ekeler and Melanie Wilking Relationship Timeline
Ethan Miller/Getty Images
NFL player Austin Ekeler found love when he met dancer Melanie Wilking in the game of love. Since 2021, the football star and TikToker have captured people's hearts with their entertaining social media videos and special love story. What stands out the most about this couple is their unwavering support for each other's careers.
Whenever it was time for football, Wilking could always be found in the stands supporting her favorite running back, showing off her game day outfits. Her partner, Ekeler, would often join her in TikTok videos where they danced and exercised together.
In October 2023, Wilking joked on Instagram about a low-quality video but high-quality memories after Ekeler agreed to participate in another couple's challenge. They shared moments of #losangeles #relationships #challenge#partneryoga.
Keep scrolling to relive Ekeler and Wilking’s sweetest moments in their relationship:
2021
NFL Player Austin Ekeler and Melanie Wilking Relationship Timeline
Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images
According to People, Ekeler’s romance with Wilking began thanks to the power of social media. The NFL star made the first move by sending the dancer a DM.
August 2023
On a beautiful summer evening, Ekeler proposed to his girlfriend by the ocean in Laguna Beach, California. Wilking excitedly shared the news on Instagram, showing off her new ring and expressing her excitement to marry her best friend. "I can't believe this is real! #fiance #engaged."
February 2024
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A post shared by Melanie Wilking (@melaniewilking)
March 2024
Months prior to their wedding, the couple enjoyed a lovely party thrown in celebration of their engagement. Wilking expressed gratitude on Instagram for the shower hosted by her parents. She mentioned how living far from family can be tough, making it extra special to have everyone together to meet her beloved Austin.
Ekeler, the former Los Angeles Chargers running back, recently inked a two-year contract with the Washington Commanders for a reported maximum of $11.43 million. This new opportunity meant that Ekeler and his partner needed to start looking for a new home closer to Washington D.C.
Relocating to the DMV
Shortly after signing with the Washington Commanders, Ekeler shared on Instagram that they were in the process of moving to the DMV area and gradually furnishing their new place. The hashtags used in the post included #moving, #movingday, #travel, #dmv, #dc, and #washingtondc.
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A post shared by Melanie Wilking (@melaniewilking)
In May 2024, Before officially becoming a bride, Wilking had the chance to enjoy a Bachelorette party in Las Vegas with her closest girlfriends.
Bachelorette Party in Las Vegas
“When the bridal party are dancers My bachelorette weekend was so incredibly fun!” she shared on Instagram on April 29. Wilking expressed her joy at being surrounded by her besties and staying in the stunning Blush Suite at the Palms. She mentioned that it was the cutest and most gorgeous hotel room she had ever stayed in.
Ekeler and Wilking exchanged vows at a romantic wedding ceremony at the Hilton Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa in Las Vegas before the start of a new NFL season. Wilking expressed her happiness, saying, "It was everything we have ever wanted and more. To have all of our family members travel to Las Vegas to celebrate our love is something I could have only dreamed about. We are so thankful."
Wilking also celebrated her wedding day with Derrick, and their relationship will be featured in the Netflix docuseries Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult, set to premiere on May 29, 2024.
