Danny Cipriani’s estranged wife cut a solemn figure today as she arrived at her lawyer’s office to begin divorce proceedings against the former England rugby star.
Victoria Rose and her husband announced the end of their two-and-a-half-year marriage yesterday.
Today the 42-year-old looked distressed as she arrived at an appointment with her legal team but declined to comment.
She married the former England rugby great in April 2021, but the couple split a fortnight ago and have jointly acknowledged that their marriage has come to an end.
Their marriage had entered a storm after she discovered text messages on his phone, causing a series of arguments.
Victoria Rose arrives at her lawyer’s office today to begin divorce proceedings against her husband, rugby star Danny Cipriani
The 42-year-old made no comment outside the offices of her legal adviser today
The couple was experiencing happier times before announcing their split earlier this week
A friend of the couple told MailOnline: ‘It’s quite devastating for both of them, and that’s putting it mildly.
‘Both are heartbroken and want to keep everything surrounding the divorce as private as possible.
‘But a group of us met Victoria last week to give her lots of hugs. She was inconsolable and said her heart was in pieces.
‘She cried a lot and said that when she married Danny she believed it would be forever. She said she hoped he would be okay too.”
Danny released a statement about the split yesterday, telling his 221,000 Instagram followers that he “wished only the best” for his ex.
But in a gaffe he claimed they split after four years of marriage – even though their wedding day was two years ago.
He shared, “Victoria and I sat down this weekend and agreed to separate after four years of marriage.
“While we have had some wonderful times together, we have also recognized that we are on a different journey and while this is sad news, it is also a new chapter for both of us to pursue our own happiness. I wish only the best for Victoria and her children.”
But Victoria immediately hit back, telling her 11,000 Instagram followers: ‘I’m not sure why Daniel needs to tell Instagram about his relationship status. I don’t want an invasion. May I ask for some privacy as I navigate this vulnerable time?”
On Sunday, she posted a video to her Instagram Stories of an old woman dancing on a beach with a bird on her head, alongside the caption “I’m in the middle of another existential crisis.”
The couple started dating in June 2020 and Danny proposed to mum-of-two Victoria weeks after they first met.
Victoria last shared a photo with Danny in October when she wrote a cryptic caption about life “with its ups and downs.”
Danny Cipriani and Victoria Rose pictured together in September after a BBC Breakfast interview discussing Danny’s new book, Who Am I?, in which he detailed his sex life
Victoria shared a cryptic Instagram post in her last post with Danny in October – a month later the couple announced their marriage was over
It has been suggested that the more lurid aspects of Danny Cipriani’s autobiography played a role in the breakdown of the couple’s relationship.
She shared, “I’ve been feeling a little tense lately, but I wanted to take a moment to share with you that I’m okay. Life has its ups and downs, and right now I welcome this as a time of growth and learning. Every challenge and obstacle that comes my way is just another lesson in disguise, guiding me to become a better version of myself.
“In the midst of all this, I am reminded of the importance of gratitude. So here is a list of things I am incredibly grateful for: 1. My family is always there for me. 2. My wonderful friends who bring joy and laughter into my life. 3. The roof over my head offers me comfort and security. 4. Good health, which allows me to pursue my dreams and passions.’
She continued, “5. The beauty of nature never fails to inspire and awe me. 6. The opportunities that come my way help me grow. 7. The simple pleasures in life that put a smile on my face. 8. Lessons I have learned from both successes and failures that have made me a stronger individual.
‘9. The acts of kindness I have received remind me of the goodness in people’s hearts. 10. The unique strengths and talents I possess that allow me to make a difference.
‘Amidst the chaos and challenges, there is always something to be grateful for. What are you grateful for today?’
The couple’s friend added: ‘This has come as a shock to all of us, her family and friends.
‘They were so in love. All you have to do is look at Danny’s book and the tribute you paid her.
‘He said she was the ‘most beautiful and special woman’ he had ever met and that ‘God certainly took the time for her.’
“Their friends like me just wonder how such a special love can die so quickly? We are all completely shocked.”