Bill Gates, 69, has opened up about the enduring regret of his divorce from Melinda Gates, 60, after 27 years of marriage.
In an interview with The Times of London published on Saturday, the Microsoft co-founder reflected on their split, calling it “the mistake I most regret.” Despite finding a more positive outlook in recent years, he acknowledged the divorce remains the most painful chapter in his life.
“There are others [mistakes], but none that matter,” he said, adding, “The divorce thing was miserable for me and Melinda for at least two years.”
Although both are now dating other people, Bill emphasized the friendly relationship they’ve maintained since their separation. “Melinda and I still see each other — we have three kids and two grandchildren, so there are family events. The kids are doing well. They have good values,” he shared.
Reflecting on their decades-long marriage, Bill credited Melinda for keeping him “grounded” while he built his trillion-dollar tech empire.
The couple, who married in 1994, share three children: Jennifer, 28, Rory, 25, and Phoebe, 22. They confirmed their split in May 2021 but had been living apart for a year before the announcement.
Despite moving on, Bill admits the breakup will always top the list of his life’s regrets.