Kayla Nicole opens up about surviving Special Forces, post-Travis Kelce growth, and dating struggles.
How did Kayla conquer Special Forces?
Kayla Nicole battled icy waters and mental hurdles on Fox’s Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test, securing victory after 10 grueling days.
The sports broadcaster-turned-reality star tells PEOPLE her triumph wasn’t just physical—it was a rebirth.
“I did this entirely on my own grit,” she declares, silencing critics who once tethered her success to famous exes.
What changed after the show?
A year post-filming, Nicole emerged tougher, wiser. Public scrutiny after her split from NFL star Travis Kelce left scars, but Special Forces rewired her resilience.
“I’m reduced to headlines no more,” she says. Her win shattered stereotypes, proving strength needs no borrowed spotlight.
Is Kayla ready for love again?
Heartbreak? Worth the risk. “Love’s the best part of life,” Nicole insists. After healing from her post-2022 breakup, she’s dating again—though modern romance tests her patience.
“Men these days? Not God’s finest work,” she laughs. Still, she’s open to “any good soul,” NFL star or not.
How does she handle public judgment?
Nicole’s love life became tabloid fodder when Kelce dated Taylor Swift. “It’s overwhelming,” she admits. But Special Forces taught her to armor up.
“Women’s achievements get erased daily,” she notes. “My victory? That’s mine—no asterisks.”
What’s her dating dealbreaker?
No Rihanna-esque checklists here. Nicole seeks someone “kind, funny, taller,” but integrity tops all.
“Attract what’s meant for you,” she says, channeling chill vibes. “If he’s drama-free and loyal, height’s just a bonus.”
Quick Facts: Kayla Nicole
- Victory Unshackled: First to pass Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test Season 3.
- Ex-Factor: Dated Chiefs’ Travis Kelce for 5 years before 2022 split.
- Public Battles: Criticized online after the Kelce-Swift romance went viral.
- Love Philosophy: “Risk heartbreak forever if it means finding love again.”
- Dating Reality: Calls modern dating “rough” but remains open-minded.
