Abbey Clancy Jokes Tennis Star Flirted With Peter Crouch

In a lighthearted moment that has captured the attention of fans and media alike, former model Abbey Clancy has playfully accused a top-ranked tennis star of flirting with her husband, legendary former footballer Peter Crouch. The revelation emerged during a recent episode of the couple’s popular podcast, The Therapy Crouch, offering a glimpse into their family life following a recent trip abroad.

The UAE Getaway and the Tennis Encounter

The anecdote stems from the couple’s recent family excursion to the United Arab Emirates, specifically Dubai. Peter Crouch was in attendance at the prestigious World Sports Summit, held in December 2025 at the Madinat Jumeirah resort. The event, billed as an “exclusive global gathering dedicated to inspiring the future of sport,” provided the backdrop for the curious interaction.

While Peter was engaged with the summit, Abbey and their daughter, Sophia, were also present. During their stay, they attended a highly anticipated “Battle of the Sexes” exhibition tennis match. The exhibition pitted Belarusian world number one Aryna Sabalenka against the charismatic Australian Nick Kyrgios.

Abbey’s Jealousy and the Podcast Revelation

Discussing the trip on their podcast, Abbey admitted to feeling a pang of jealousy about missing out, citing the lengthy nature of tennis matches as the reason she stayed behind with their younger children. However, the highlight for their daughter, Sophia, was the opportunity to meet her tennis idol, Aryna Sabalenka, on the court.

It was this meeting that prompted Abbey’s teasing accusation. She jokingly remarked to Peter, “She was flirting with you, wasn't she?” Peter, seemingly playing along with the jest, responded with a simple, “Yeah.”

Abbey then elaborated, adopting an exaggerated, playful tone to mimic the alleged flirtation. She humorously suggested Sabalenka had said something along the lines of, “Ooh, I love looking up to a man's first time,” referencing the significant height difference between the 6ft 7in Crouch and the 5ft 11in tennis star.

Peter Sets the Record Straight (Sort Of)

Peter Crouch quickly stepped in to clarify the situation, gently refuting the dramatic interpretation. He insisted that there was no actual flirtation involved, explaining that Sabalenka had merely commented that it was “nice to look up to someone.” Despite the clarification, the playful dynamic between the couple—with Abbey teasing and Peter good-naturedly defending—provided excellent content for their listeners.

Abbey Clancy’s Milestone Birthday Celebrations

The lighthearted podcast discussion followed closely on the heels of Abbey Clancy’s recent 40th birthday celebrations. The model and television personality was inundated with supportive messages from friends and followers following a lavish getaway organised by her husband.

Abbey revealed that Peter whisked her away to Paris for the milestone occasion. Sharing snapshots from the European birthday trip on social media, she expressed profound gratitude. “What a weekend for my 40th birthday I feel so so loved thank you to my amazing husband and my wonderful family and friends who have travelled from all over the world to surprise me in Paris love you all,” she posted.

The birthday festivities drew well-wishes from numerous celebrity friends, including Carol Vorderman, Denise van Outen, and Olivia Attwood. Close friend Holly Willoughby also shared a sweet tribute, posting a picture of the duo with the caption “A couples of 10s,” noting the proximity of Abbey’s January 10th birthday to her own February 10th celebration.

A Painful Birthday Mishap

Despite the joy of her Parisian celebration, Abbey’s trip was marred by a painful injury. The mother-of-four recounted an unfortunate incident where she suffered a significant nail injury while hugging a friend. Her acrylic nail bent backwards, leading to the entire nail coming off and the digit pouring with blood.

Describing the aftermath, Abbey explained that the initial bleeding stopped, but the nerve began to throb intensely, sending pain down her arm, shoulder, and up her neck. She required immediate medical attention, eventually being placed on a painkiller drip at the hospital. She praised the doctor who treated her, noting his kindness eased her phobia of medical environments, requiring an injection to numb the area before the necessary treatment.

Fans looking for more of the couple’s candid commentary can catch Peter and Abbey on Michael McIntyre's Big Show on BBC One on Saturday, January 17th.