Former American track and field athlete, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, has been married to her husband, Bob Kersee, for thirty-seven years. Despite being married for such a long time, the couple has no children to this day.
Bob and Jakie both have a passion for sports which initially drew them to each other. As time passed, their relationship grew stronger, and they got married in 1986.
Prior to becoming romantically involved, Bob coached Jackie, and under his guidance, she accomplished great things in her athletic pursuits.
Even now, in 2022, Kersee is still a highly influential figure in the athletic world and is recognized as one of the world’s most prominent athletes in the heptathlon as well as the long jump.
In March 2023, Jacqueline Joyner-Kersee, a highly accomplished athlete in the heptathlon and long jump, was inducted into the International Sports Hall of Fame.
Jakie has had one of the greatest careers securing an impressive three gold, one silver, and two bronze medals throughout her career, spanning four Olympic Games.
Her exceptional achievements led Sports Illustrated for Women magazine to acknowledge her as the Greatest Female Athlete of All-Time.
Moreover, she holds a position on the board of directors for USA Track & Field (U.S.A.T.F.), the national governing body for the sport in the United States.
Jackie Joyner Kersee Husband, Bob Kersee
Jackie Joyner Kersee’s husband, Bob Kersee, is a renowned American track coach. Born in the Canal Zone of Panama, he attended San Pedro High School.
After graduating from Long Beach State University in 1978, Bob Kersee was actively involved in coaching the women’s track and field team while pursuing a degree in physical education.
Before his time at Long Beach State, Kersee also competed for Harbor Junior College. Following his graduation from Long Beach State, Kersee embarked on the path to earn a master’s degree in exercise physiology at California State University, Northridge (CSUN).
Later in 1980, he moved to the University of California, Los Angeles, where he served as an assistant coach for four years before becoming head coach.
Bob is respected for his ability to train high-level athletes, some of whom have become successful coaches themselves.
In recognition of his contributions, he was also named USATF Coach of the Year in 2005.
Jackie Joyner And Bob Kersee’s Married Life & Kids
Jackie and Bob are a beautiful example of true love. They have been married since 1986, and they stand by each other’s side through both good and bad days.
They first met when Bob was Jackie was coach, but over time they fell in love with each other. Prior to meeting Bob, Jackie wasn’t interested in love or relationships.
She had attempted to date people outside of the sports world but faced challenges in those relationships.
In an interview with the Los Angeles Times, Jackie shared that she had dated a few men outside the sports world, but they struggled to understand her ambition and achievements.
They often suggested that she prioritize more conventional pursuits. However, those relationships didn’t work out due to differing perspectives on her career and aspirations.
Jackie eventually met the love of her life through coaching. As both of them are involved in athletics, they understand each other’s ambition and love for sports.