In a recent interview on the Today show, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, 69, spoke openly for the first time about his relationship with Paula Hurd, 62. He called her his “serious girlfriend,” and said, “We are having fun, going to the Olympics, and doing lots of great things.”
Who is Paula Hurd?
Paula Hurd is the widow of Mark Hurd, the former CEO of Oracle and Hewlett-Packard, who passed away in 2019. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in 1984 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. After completing her studies, she built a career in sales and alliance management at NCR Corporation. Currently, she is involved in organising charitable events, as well as corporate and personal engagements.
Gates and Hurd’s Public Appearances
Gates and Hurd share a passion for tennis and have been spotted together at multiple events. They attended the Laver Cup in September 2022 and the Australian Open in January 2023. The couple made their relationship public in early 2023 and have since attended several high-profile events together, including the pre-wedding celebrations of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant in Jamnagar, Gujarat, in March 2024.
In an interview with The Times, Gates expressed regret over his divorce from Melinda French Gates, calling it “the mistake I most regret.” ‘’I am feeling more optimistic now,’’ Gates commented, admitting that the divorce was a difficult experience for both of them and considering it as one of his greatest setbacks. ‘’The whole divorce situation was hard for both Melinda and me for at least two years, ‘’he added. However, he acknowledged that both he and Melinda have moved forward and are seeing other people.
As Gates continues his philanthropic work and personal pursuits, his relationship with Hurd appears to be a meaningful and joyful new chapter in his life.