Leah Williamson Enjoys Glamorous New York Getaway with Model Girlfriend Elle Smith Ahead of World Cup Push

Leah Williamson, captain of England’s Lionesses and celebrated Arsenal defender, has been sparking headlines—with her personal life just as much as her on-field achievements. At the centre of attention is American model and former Miss USA Elle Smith, with whom Williamson is increasingly photographed—most recently embracing the New York lifestyle together.

Elle Smith, represented by Wilhelmina Models in New York, has shared glimpses of their recent city adventures. According to Elle, they’ve been enjoying relaxed days with hair appointments, city meals, and downtime together—a marked contrast to the intensity of tournament preparation. While neither has officially labeled their relationship, public affection and Instagram interactions have added weight to longstanding dating rumours.

The relationship—reportedly linked since 2024—was further amplified last spring when Elle posted a video of her and Leah paddle-boarding, captioning it “happy birthday my love x.” Following that, shared posts celebrating key moments such as Leah’s role in England’s 6‑0 win over Portugal only deepened speculation.

As captain, Leah led England to their second consecutive UEFA Women’s Euro title in July 2025, defeating Spain in a dramatic penalty shootout in Basel. A historic win on foreign soil elevated her to a distinguished place in English football history. She dedicated the victory to the nation and future generations of girls, noting how transformative women’s football has become since their first victory in 2022.

Based near Arsenal’s training ground in Hertfordshire, Leah leads a disciplined life characterised by early mornings, structured meals, meticulous rest, and even the oddly therapeutic act of hoovering. Despite her celebrity, she values solitude and avoids cooking—hoovering, she says, is more her pace than any culinary ambition.

A vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, women’s equality, and endometriosis awareness, Williamson has taken a leadership role both on and off the pitch. In 2023, she was awarded an OBE for her services to football and activism.

Leah Williamson continues to define excellence in sport and personal advocacy. Her emerging relationship with Elle Smith adds a refreshing human dimension to her public persona. As the Lionesses look ahead to the 2027 World Cup, fans will watch not only her athletic legacy but also her evolving life beyond football.

England’s victory parade in London drew 65,000 supporters and underlined the team’s cultural impact. As Williamson affirmed, “this story is not done yet,” with ambitions already set on the World Cup in Brazil and more milestones ahead.