Anne De Paula: 5 Shocking Facts About Joel Embiid's Wife And SI Swimsuit Star

Anne de Paula is far more than just a famous NBA wife; she is a trailblazing Brazilian model, a committed mother, and a formidable figure in the fashion world. With recent news of her second pregnancy and her lavish 2023 wedding to Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid, the public’s curiosity about her life is at an all-time high.

As of late 2024, Anne de Paula’s life is a whirlwind of family milestones and career success. From her humble beginnings in Rio de Janeiro to walking the runway for major designers and becoming a staple of the *Sports Illustrated Swimsuit* Issue, her journey is a compelling blend of glamour, athleticism, and deep family values. Here are the most essential and surprising facts about the international model.

Anne de Paula: Complete Biography and Profile

To truly understand the woman behind the headlines, a detailed look at her professional and personal milestones is necessary. Anne de Paula has built a powerful brand through dedication, starting her career at a remarkably young age and maintaining a strong connection to her Brazilian roots.

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• Full Name: Anne de Paula
• Birth Date: March 31, 1995
• Age (as of late 2024): 29 years old
• Birthplace: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
• Nationality: Brazilian
• Height: 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm)
• Eye/Hair Color: Brown eyes, dark brown hair
• Modeling Agency: Wilhelmina New York Women
• Spouse: Joel Embiid (Married July 22, 2023)
• Children: Son, Arthur Elijah de Paula Embiid (b. September 17, 2020), and a second child due soon.
• Early Career Start: Began modeling professionally at the age of 14.
• Notable Career Highlight: Winner of the *Sports Illustrated Swimsuit* 2017 Model Search.

1. The Unexpected Path from Medicine to Modeling Stardom

Before the catwalks and high-profile photoshoots, Anne de Paula had a completely different professional goal: medicine. While she was encouraged by her mother and friends to pursue modeling, her initial aspiration was to become a doctor. This early interest highlights a commitment to high-level achievement, a trait she carried into the competitive fashion industry.

Her entry into the modeling world was a swift success. She signed her first contract at the age of 14, but her career truly skyrocketed when she joined the *Sports Illustrated Swimsuit* family. In 2017, she entered the magazine’s Model Search competition and emerged as the clear winner, instantly making her an international name.

This victory led to a multi-year partnership with the publication, establishing her as a staple in the annual issue for four consecutive years. Her debut shoot notably featured a daring body paint session, a classic SI tradition, which cemented her status as a breakout star. She has since been featured in other major publications like *Maxim* and has walked the runway for high-fashion brands such as Michael Kors, proving her versatility beyond the swimsuit genre.

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2. Her Lavish Hamptons Wedding Was a Star-Studded Private Affair

The relationship between Anne de Paula and NBA superstar Joel Embiid began in 2018 after meeting through a mutual friend in New York. The couple kept their romance relatively private, especially compared to other celebrity pairings, but their wedding was anything but low-key.

On Saturday, July 22, 2023, the couple officially tied the knot in an extravagant, picturesque ceremony in Southampton, New York, a prestigious location in The Hamptons. The wedding was a culmination of their five-year relationship, which included the birth of their son. While details of the venue and guest list were kept under wraps, the event was described as a magical, beachside affair, attended by close friends and family, including Embiid's Philadelphia 76ers teammates. The model later shared breathtaking wedding shots, offering a glimpse into the lavish event that celebrated their commitment.

3. The Meaning Behind Her Son's Name and the Announcement of a Second Child

The Embiid-de Paula family is growing, which is the freshest and most exciting update as of late 2024. Joel Embiid recently announced that he and Anne are expecting their second child, a major family milestone that continues their journey as parents.

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Their first child, a son named Arthur Elijah de Paula Embiid, was born on September 17, 2020. The name Arthur holds a deep, personal significance for the NBA star. It is a tribute to Embiid’s late younger brother, Arthur, who tragically passed away in 2014. This connection underscores the couple's strong family values and the way Anne has embraced and supported Joel's personal history. The birth of Arthur was a turning point for Embiid, who often cites fatherhood as his greatest motivation, a sentiment Anne fully supports.

4. She is a Dedicated NBA Travel Partner and Soccer Enthusiast

Anne de Paula’s support for her husband goes beyond the typical courtside appearance. She has demonstrated a willingness to travel great distances to support his professional career, showing a deep commitment to the Philadelphia 76ers and Embiid's success.

Early in their relationship, Anne traveled halfway across the world to China to support Joel Embiid during the Sixers' preseason games, a significant trip that solidified her role as a dedicated partner. This passion for travel is also a personal interest, as her modeling career has taken her to destinations across the globe, including the Dominican Republic for her 2020 SI Swimsuit shoot.

Beyond basketball, Anne is a passionate fan of soccer (football), a sport deeply ingrained in Brazilian culture, and a love she shares with her family back in Rio de Janeiro. This shared interest in sports creates a strong bond with her athlete husband, making them one of the most powerful couples in the NBA world.

5. Her Modeling Success is Built on More Than Just Looks

While Anne de Paula’s striking features—dark brown hair, brown eyes, and a 5' 9'' frame—are undeniable assets, her long-term success with a prestigious agency like Wilhelmina Models is a testament to her work ethic and personality.

When she won the *Sports Illustrated Swimsuit* Model Search, the judges highlighted her charisma, confidence, and natural beauty as key factors. She was praised for her ability to pose in challenging environments and her authentic connection to the camera. Her career, which began at 14, has been sustained by a professional dedication that allowed her to transition from a young discovery in her native Rio de Janeiro to a globally recognized figure in high-fashion and commercial modeling. Her journey proves that the most enduring careers in the fashion industry are built on a foundation of resilience and genuine personality.