Meet the NFL WAG Turned Romance Novelist Who May Have Manifested a Travis Kelce–Taylor Swift Super Bowl

When Alexa Martin laid eyes on Taylor Swift in the VIP area at Arrowhead Stadium, rooting for Travis Kelce and the Kansas City Chiefs in September 2023, it felt like her romantic daydreams had come to life.

Martin made a prediction in her latest novel, Fumbled, which was released in 2019. Kelce, a football player, was cast as the romantic lead by the author. The male protagonist of the book was TK Moore, also a football player, and famous for his height, green eyes, style, and impressive on-field skills. Martin created a mood board on Pinterest to assist her in writing this football-themed romance novel.

Martin shared with Vanity Fair that initially, people were unfamiliar with Kelce and questioned his identity. However, Martin had a hunch that he could be likened to a charming Disney prince and suggested googling him in formal attire. She was impressed by his fashion sense and discovered images of him attending games that solidified her belief in his heroic potential as a character in a romance novel. Thus, Kelce became the inspiration for Martin's second book, Fumbled.

Before Alexa Martin began writing sports romance novels, she was already living out her own sports romance story. Martin and her husband, Derrick Martin, started dating in high school and got married when they were both 20 years old. Derrick was a sixth-round draft pick for the Baltimore Ravens in 2006 and went on to have a successful eight-season career as an NFL safety. He won two Super Bowls, one in 2011 with the Green Bay Packers and another in 2012 with the New York Giants, before retiring. Along with their four children, the Martins are also proud owners of seven books authored by Alexa.

The story of Fumbled doesn't follow the typical "pop star falls for football star" plotline. Instead, the leading lady is a single mother who had a relationship with TK when they were in high school. Fast forward 10 years, and TK is now a hugely famous football player. The curious coincidence of Martin's love for romantic novels, Taylor Swift, Travis Kelce (another NFL player), and her own past as a WAG in the NFL makes this an intriguing read for fans of popular culture.

Martin exclaimed in disbelief when Swift arrived in the VIP box, exclaiming "No way, be quiet!" He knew that her presence would draw attention to TK and everyone would inevitably fall in love with their music.

Although Kelce’s popularity has undoubtedly increased due to the public's interest in his relationship, Martin claims that his qualities as a leading man have always been present, and only now are we taking notice of them. Martin highlights Kelce's charming characteristics, such as making bracelets and showing love for his mother, and also mentions his admirable charitable work with disadvantaged children. Martin finds Kelce's wholesome persona impressive and states that it is a fantastic quality, especially coming from a female writer's perspective.

At the start of the week, Martin had a discussion with VF about the reasons behind the global admiration for Swift and Kelce. He also expressed regret for not including certain aspects of their real-life relationship in his writing.

This interview has been modified and shortened to make the information easier to understand.

Vanity Fair asked about the origin of the inspiration for T.K. Moore in reference to Travis Kelce. Can you provide some details on this?

Alexa Martin shares her writing process and how she creates her characters. While she doesn't base her characters on one particular person, she does source pictures to help with her descriptions and ensure consistency throughout her writing. For example, if she needs to describe a man's suit, she might turn to Pinterest for visual inspiration. It was on Pinterest that she found the perfect representation of her character TK, and he effortlessly fit into his role in her story.

Obviously, Taylor Swift is a fascinating character in the story of our real lives.

I really admire her for being so transparent and unashamed about every aspect of her life, and how she incorporates it into her artwork. She doesn't hold back when discussing her personal experiences and relationships, and she truly gives her audience something to chew on. It's difficult not to become engrossed in her world, regardless of your age. Watching her mature into adulthood and witnessing her and Travis navigate the ups and downs of life together has been a truly captivating experience.

I refer to this as showcasing their competence: They're both at the pinnacle of their careers and have the whole world at their feet. Despite having a sea of options to choose from, they have chosen each other. They're ignoring the noise and making sure to be present for one another. What sets Travis apart is his recognition of her accomplishments. Unlike past relationships where he was just a fan, he acknowledges her with a sense of respect. He attends her concerts and cheers her on, acknowledging her talent. She, on the other hand, supports him by being a dedicated fan at his games. They support each other without any tinge of jealousy, which is often seen in such relationships.

Did it surprise you when she appeared at the initial match?

Wow, I was completely shocked when she arrived. I couldn't believe it. TK is definitely going to sweep everyone off their feet now. I feel like some people hear "sports romance" and immediately think they won't enjoy it if they don't like the sport involved. However, the sports aspect is really just a minor detail. I don't spend chapters detailing every play or movement on the field, it's simply the setting. As soon as people realized that and saw the focus was on the two main characters' relationship, it became clear that this is a classic romance novel.

When I saw her with her red lipstick, I couldn't help but notice how she was hanging out with Brittany Mahomes (Patrick Mahomes' wife) and her other friends. It was as if she was back in 1989, just having fun and enjoying life. But what struck me the most was how she seemed to have this newfound confidence, like she didn't care about being on TV. It made me think about the power of a great relationship. In my books, my heroines prioritize their own goals over their romantic relationships, and it seems like she's doing the same. To me, that makes her relationship even more romantic.

She's a young lady who's standing by her man, and he's the man who's backing her up, and coincidentally, they're both performing on grand platforms with a vast audience.

Do you receive comments from your husband about your books? How does it work when your spouse, who is a former NFL athlete, reads your spicy romance novel that features fictitious NFL players and written by you?

He has listened to some books on Audible, and I didn't want him to read them. I shared them with my WAG friends, who have all read them. Sometimes I ask him questions about his experiences, not really fact-checking the sport but more about his schedule, what it was like in the locker room, and how he felt after losing. I know he has read some of the books, and my friends have too. Occasionally, I even tell my friends that their ex-husbands are the bad guys in certain books.

If you had written romantic scenes inspired by Travis Kelce, what would you say to him if you ever happened to meet him?

Wow, I'm really impressed by this guy who keeps talking about his book. He's so charming, but I also admire his brother, Jason Kelce. I wish I could get to know his family and join them for Thanksgiving. I actually used him as inspiration for my own work. I think he must be a fun and amazing person, but honestly, I don't know much about him beyond the recent news about his relationships with Travis and Taylor. I tried to watch his reality show, but it was difficult to sit through. I might just give him a copy of my book, but I'm worried he might think I'm a stalker or a weirdo. I don't really know what to say to him, so maybe I'll just compliment him on his great suits and wish him the best in taking care of his health and his loved ones.

Why do you believe that he has become more popular than just being a footballer?

Football romance is very popular, and once you become one of the top players on the team, you become a celebrity. There are a few players who get insurance commercials and become famous. One player in particular is very charming, and it's nice to see him with his brother. Most NFL players have short careers, around three years, but this player has been playing much longer than that. He could have been traded for a lot more money, but he decided to stay with his current team because he wants to win and be a part of a winning team. It's not just about making money for him; he wants the full experience of being part of a team he loves. He has become a big part of the community and seems to be really connected with his quarterback. He also stars in a podcast with his brother where they do silly things together. He is really attractive and talented, and he seems like a really nice guy. He is the perfect package, and he is very appealing. Even though we don't know if he could act, we would love to see him on our TV screens.

All right, here's the big question: Is Taylor Swift going to perform at the Super Bowl?

There is absolutely no chance that she will not attend the Super Bowl. It was truly the greatest thing I have ever witnessed on television to see them on the field after their recent game. It was absolutely amazing and completely enthralling. There is simply no way for her to have been in that atmosphere, to have watched them move forward to the Super Bowl and if she is able to make it, and I think we all know that she can, then there is absolutely no doubt that she will be there. She was even willing to brave a game in Buffalo during the winter, so there is no way she will miss the Super Bowl if she wants to attend.

What happens if they emerge victorious and step onto the playing field?

Wow, getting to step onto the field afterwards was such an amazing experience that I feel incredibly fortunate to have had. It was absolutely surreal, seeing my kids playing in the confetti and holding up newspapers. Plus, the merchandise was already available to buy - so much fun! It seems like my friend is really smitten with the team, so she definitely won't miss the opportunity to show her support by being down there and cheering them on. She doesn't let other people's opinions bother her, and if they end up winning, you can bet she'll be proudly holding up the trophy.

We all want her to be dedicated as well.

Sometimes, I get the impression that the world is a complete mess and we tend to concentrate on specific moments of happiness. We put all our energy into those moments and it's not a bad thing to grasp onto them. Every week, I question if she is still in the same place. I don't mean to be intrusive, and it's up to the couple to shape their relationship however they want, but I hope they never break up.

It is imperative that we sustain this effort, for the benefit of each and every one of us.

I'm hoping they'll take the next step and become engaged. Have you even laid eyes on that bracelet? It's what adds to the allure of their relationship. It all began with a simple friendship bracelet he crafted for her, and then he went all out with a personalized, luxurious bracelet adorned in diamonds and gold with their initials. I mean, seriously, it's ridiculously over-the-top. It's as if we're watching a romantic film.

Do you believe he's truly that slick? Does he generate these ideas independently?

I believe he is! It's all in the suits, isn't it? The way he carries himself exudes such effortless charm and sophistication, it's clear he's got it all down pat. As for her, she's certainly basked in plenty of admiration before, but this must feel completely unique. I bet being the apple of his eye is a truly dazzling experience.

I've enjoyed observing their journey and I am looking forward to witnessing their engagement and a beautiful wedding in Kansas City.

There are many side bets floating around, and one of them is whether they will propose to each other if the Chiefs win at the weekend. Any thoughts on this?

In my opinion, it was a moment that only happens during the Super Bowl. I appreciate that he chose not to discuss her. It shows that some aspects of their personal lives are still sacred to them. They probably wouldn't want that information to become public knowledge. Who knows, maybe she'll appear at her concerts during the summer sporting a massive diamond ring.

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