- Drake Maye says his wife Ann Michael, 22-year-old, is a competitive athlete who plays everything from mahjong to tennis.
- The couple tied the knot on June 21, 2025 after a romance that began in college.
- During a press conference on January 21, 2026, the 23-year-old Patriots quarterback highlighted their shared love of competition.
Why it matters: Fans learn that the Patriots star’s personal life is as dynamic as his on-field performance, and his marriage to Ann Michael adds a new chapter to his story.
Introduction
Patriots quarterback Drake Maye surprised reporters on January 21, 2026 with a candid look at his competitive marriage to Ann Michael. The 23-year-old, who was drafted by the Patriots in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, said the couple’s rivalry extends beyond football, into board games, mahjong, and tennis. Their romance began in high school, continued through college, and culminated in a wedding at the Grandfather Golf and Country Club on June 21, 2025.
Competitive Spirit
During the pre-game press conference before the AFC Championship, Maye laughed that he “could be playing board games” with his wife. He added that Ann recently started playing mahjong but admitted he had not “gotten into that” yet. “But, something like that, or playing Battleship or cards or anything that goes with me playing her,” he said, highlighting the playful nature of their relationship.
- Mahjong – Ann’s new hobby
- Battleship – A classic game they enjoy
- Cards – Regular competitive nights
Offseason Activities
Maye also mentioned the couple’s off-season tennis practice. “We picked up tennis a little bit in the offseason,” he said, noting he was still trying to “take it easy on the shoulder a little bit” as the Patriots set their sights on the Lombardi. He praised Ann as “a great athlete” who “will try anything we can compete in.”
Celebrations on the Field
When asked about his celebrations after the Patriots beat the Texans on January 18, 2026, Maye described the snowy scene at Gillette Stadium. “It was pretty cool with the snow and just taking time to enjoy it with the people that I love,” he told reporters. He noted that his wife had “gotten on me” as other fans joined the field, adding a light-hearted tone to the moment.
Love Story Timeline
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 2024 | Drafted by the Patriots in the first round |
| 2024 | Rookie season begins |
| 2025 | Maye proposes to Ann Michael |
| June 21, 2025 | Married at Grandfather Golf and Country Club |
| January 18, 2026 | Patriots beat Texans; celebration at Gillette Stadium |
| January 21, 2026 | Press conference highlighting competitive marriage |
From Teen Years to the NFL
Maye and Michael first met as teenagers before attending the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Their shared background in athletics and competitive spirit carried over into their adult lives. The couple’s wedding was a modest affair, but the union added a personal dimension to Maye’s rapidly evolving career.
Key Takeaways
- Drake Maye balances a demanding NFL career with a competitive partnership.
- Ann Michael’s athleticism and love of games complement Maye’s drive.
- Their marriage on June 21, 2025 marks a new chapter for the Patriots quarterback.
Fans now get a glimpse of the man behind the helmet, showing that his competitiveness extends far beyond the gridiron.
